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Spring Cold Season: Are Your Cough and Sore Throat Just Allergies or Something More?

A woman sitting on a couch with a blanket wrapped around her shoulders, she is touching her neck as if to indicate that she has throat pain

Health & Wellness

If you have a scratchy throat, annoying cough, or constant need to clear your throat this spring, you’re not alone. As the seasons transition and the weather changes, many people find themselves asking the same question, “Are these allergies or am I getting sick?”

Why Symptoms Overlap in Spring

South Florida’s spring season brings rising levels of tree and grass pollen, which can trigger allergies. At the same time, respiratory viruses are still circulating in the community.

“Allergies, colds, and viral infections can look very similar at first — especially early in the season,” said Dr. Marta Cabrera, a primary care doctor with Jackson Medical Group. “The key is paying attention to patterns and associated symptoms.”

Spring allergies are often caused by the immune system’s response to airborne pollen. A cold or other virus is caused by a virus attacking the body.

Allergy or Cold: How to Tell the Difference

Here are some clues that can help you understand what might be causing your symptoms:

More likely allergies

  • Clear, watery nasal drainage
  • Sneezing that comes and goes
  • Itchy eyes, nose, or throat
  • No fever
  • Symptoms that last for weeks without getting worse

More likely a cold or virus

  • Body aches
  • Low-grade fever
  • Fatigue
  • Nasal discharge that’s thick or changes color
  • Symptoms that get worse before they get better

A sore throat caused by allergies is often related to postnasal drip, where mucus drains down the back of the throat, causing irritation. In contrast, viral illnesses may cause more intense pain or inflammation in the throat.

When to Call Your Doctor

Many mild allergy and cold symptoms can be managed at home. But you should contact a health care provider if you have:

  • Fever of 101 degrees Fahrenheit or higher
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pain
  • Symptoms that last longer than 10 to 14 days
  • Worsening cough or sinus pressure

“If symptoms are not improving or are interfering with your daily life, it is worth getting evaluated,” Dr. Cabrera said. “We can help determine whether it is allergies, a viral illness, a sinus infection, or something else and recommend the right treatment.”

Simple Ways to Find Relief

If allergies are the cause:

  • Check daily pollen counts and limit time outdoors when levels are high.
  • Shower after spending time outside to rinse pollen from skin and hair.
  • Use a saline nasal rinse.
  • Talk with your doctor about appropriate antihistamines or nasal sprays.

If a cold is the cause:

  • Get plenty of rest.
  • Drink fluids throughout the day.
  • Try throat drops or warm saltwater rinses.
  • Watch symptoms for changes.

Spring should feel refreshing, not exhausting. If you’re unsure what’s causing your cough or sore throat, a visit with a Jackson Medical Group primary care doctor can help you get answers and peace of mind.

To find a Jackson Medical Group primary care physician near you, visit medicalgroup.jacksonhealth.org or call 305-585-4564.