Sore throats are a common symptom of many conditions. During seasonal transitions, many people may find themselves dealing with a sore throat without knowing the underlying cause. Identifying the cause of your sore throat can be crucial in determining the appropriate treatment and managing any other associated symptoms. Two seasonal illnesses that cause a sore throat are the common cold and allergies. In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between colds and allergies so you can better distinguish what may be causing your sore throat.
For same-day sore throat treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Leetsdale. Our urgent care center provides immediate care to all patients seven days a week. If you’d like to receive care from the comfort of your own home, we also provide telemedicine. Simply walk-in or pre-register your visit below!
How To Identify an Allergy-Related Sore Throat
Seasonal allergies occur when your immune system reacts to a substance that is normally harmless, such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or mold spores. When you’re exposed to these allergens, your body may release chemicals like histamines, which can lead to inflammation in various parts of your body. For many, this inflammation manifests in the throat, causing an irritated, scratchy, and sore feeling. Allergy-related sore throats are often accompanied by other symptoms and tend to occur seasonally or after exposure to specific allergen triggers. If you have a history of allergies and notice the symptoms listed below alongside your sore throat, allergies are likely the underlying cause.
If your sore throat is due to allergies, you might notice these additional symptoms:
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Sneezing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Coughing
- Rash, in some cases
How To Identify a Sore Throat Caused by a Cold
The common cold is caused by viruses, most commonly rhinoviruses, which are highly contagious. When you come into contact with the cold virus, either through respiratory droplets from an infected person or by touching contaminated surfaces, it can lead to an upper respiratory infection that causes a range of symptoms. Unlike allergies, cold symptoms typically develop gradually and last for about a week. You might also experience a thicker, discolored nasal discharge with a cold, whereas allergies usually present with clear mucus.
In addition to a sore throat, cold symptoms may include:
- Congestion
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Fatigue
- Mild body aches
- Low-grade fever, in some cases
Getting a Diagnosis and Treatment Plan at Urgent Care
If you’re unsure about the cause of your sore throat or if your symptoms are severe or persistent, it’s essential to seek medical advice. Your healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical exam and any necessary testing to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. Urgent care centers are equipped to handle a wide range of medical conditions. Once a diagnosis is made, your provider can recommend appropriate treatment options tailored to your specific condition. If allergies are to blame, it’s important to minimize exposure to the allergen that’s triggering symptoms. Antihistamines, decongestants, and other over-the-counter medications may help alleviate symptoms. Common colds can be treated with supportive care, including rest, hydration, and OTC remedies.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Denver Leetsdale For Same-Day Treatment
Whether your sore throat stems from allergies or a cold, finding relief is crucial to your comfort and well-being. By understanding the differences between the two and paying attention to accompanying symptoms, you can better manage your condition and seek appropriate treatment when needed. Are you dealing with a sore throat? Come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Leetsdale. Our board-certified medical providers are here seven days a week to give each patient personalized guidance and care. We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about our services, please contact our office directly at (303) 935-1000.
