Allergies, Cold , or Both

Where I live it is almost Winter but the weather is like how it is in Spring in the U.S. Spent a few hours on a balcony. As soon as I got home I started to get a little congested, my dad was really congested. We both have allergies. What is weird is that it hit us both at practically the same time. I also been around someone who is sick. I have been waking up with a sore throat that gets better during the day. Both my dad and I are exhausted, and have terrible congestion. We are afraid that we both have a cold but I read that if your mucus is clear then it is allergies. I got Aerius from the pharmacy; it helped a little yesterday but today I feel terrible. My head feels like it is stuffed with wool and it feels heavy. My eyes sometimes bother me and I occasionally sneeze. Sometimes it is just too hard to think and it is taking me longer to think and sometimes even understand what someone is telling me. Work that would normally take 20 minutes is taking close to an hour. I have allergies and some sinus problems but this is the worst I have ever felt. I feel as if I can't function properly. If what my dad and I have is allergies, can allergies really be this bad?

[Dr Rajput]

Hi, welcome to the forum, it typically suggests allergic rhinitis which is exaggerated or precipitated during cold season or timing. This condition is sometimes associated with asthma. In some people allergic reactions can make life terrible at times. So it’s better to avoid the contact with allergen.

The triggering factors like dust, fog, pollens, mold in house etc. can cause the precipitation of these symptoms.

A careful nasal examination, Allergen-specific testing includes Skin testing, Serum tests for allergy, Allergen challenge and as well as Evaluation for concurrent conditions like Sinusitis, congestion etc is necessary and it directs further steps for management.

You need to avoid the exposure by covering nose with a cloth, whenever you are exposed to dust or pollens. Respiratory antibiotics can help, if there is presence of secondary infection otherwise nasal saline, decongestants and anti histamine against prescription will help. I suggest you to consult ENT specialist. Take care and regards.