Health Care

Summer Bummer: Summer Colds and Allergies

A woman sneezes into a tissue at home

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Know the Differences: Summer Allergies and Colds

In the summer months, the common cold and seasonal allergies may send us reaching for the nearest tissue box. If you start sneezing or get the sniffles, understanding the cause behind it could help you find relief more quickly.

If you need care fast this summer, we're here to help pinpoint the cause and soothe your symptoms — no appointment required.

Find a Centra Care near you.

Itchy Eyes Could Mean Allergies

Allergy symptoms are similar to common cold symptoms. But if you tend to get what you think is a cold at the same time each year, it could be seasonal allergies from tree or grass pollen.

Common allergy signs include:

  • Blue-colored, swollen skin under the eyes
  • Itchy eyes
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Sneezing
  • Sore throat

Treatment for allergies can include prescription or over-the-counter antihistamines, nasal steroid sprays or decongestants.

Fever or Fatigue Could Mean a Cold

An upper respiratory infection — commonly called a cold — is an infection in the head and chest caused by a virus. There's no cure for a cold, but you can ease your symptoms by resting, drinking lots of clear fluids and running a humidifier at night.

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