Symptoms last longer than the typical duration of a cold, which is usually 7 to 10 days. If you aren't sure if you have a cold or allergies, your health care provider can help determine the cause of your symptoms and find appropriate treatment. Experts agree that the best way to treat allergies is to avoid exposure to the allergens in the first place. But sometimes that's impossible to do. Because different treatments have different benefits and drawbacks, it is best to see your health care provider to determine which treatment is best for you.
Some common medications used to treat allergies include antihistamines and decongestants.
A decongestant may help relieve a stuffy nose. Sometimes, an antihistamine and a decongestant are used together to relieve multiple symptoms. Talk to your health care provider about trying different allergy treatments. He or she may refer you to an allergist. You may have to try a couple of different treatments before you find one that is right for you.