How do you know if symptoms are allergies or virus infections?

@scy One way to tell if you have a virus or an allergy is how long it persists. Most viruses are called self-limiting - you have them for a few days or a week and they go away when your body's defenses kick in.
Allergies can go on for a long time, and often get better or worse depending on what you are allergic to. The allergic reaction is a continuing release of histamine - that can cause itchy eyes or skin, sneezing, cough, runny nose... It will continue until you get away from the allergen.
The most talked about allergies are seasonal - to pollen - different plants produce it at different times of the year.
But the most common allergens are found in your home - dust/dust mites, pets/pet dander, colognes and perfumes, fragrances from personal care and cleaning products, air fresheners and a big one many people don't realize - laundry products including detergents and stain removers, softeners (both liquid and dryer sheets) and the newest thing "scent beads."
Which of these scenarios best describes what you are dealing with?

Thank you
In MN a virus can last a very long time
Can reoccur
And no doctors need to specifically test if viral bacterial or allergen
At last visit it changed again
My great dr who retired would have pulled me out of this mo ago
You can barely get a dr in this era to touch affected area to include lymph nodes
My primary provider whom I see the most is my chiropractor who is also my acupuncturist
See. 3-4x a mo now
Like the knowledge base of treating organ’s deficiencies sinuses lymph and neuro muscular …
Like this site tho

Hi, @scy - I've also found it challenging to determine whether symptoms are from my allergies or a virus, many times. The clue I typically look for is whether I have significant symptoms (e.g., runny nose, coughing, sneezing) that appear despite taking my regular allergy medicines, as those typically quell most symptoms. Then if my symptoms clearly override my regular medicines, I know a virus or something else is going on.

I'd like to tag a few members who may have input on distinguishing what is a virus and what is allergy @karinab1970 @jmwest248 @sussu @goodrider2024 @akaivo102 @leeann66 @sadair20 @lenchiksf.

Did you end up taking prednisone, scy? If so, how did it go?

Go on vacation like Cancun for a week ! Will rest, relax and feel better if its allergies !!! Also cartibean side salt water, fresh air will help to feel better

For me, the giveaway is whether or not my eyes itch. Symptoms from a virus or bacterial infection that cause coughing, congestion and nasal issues aren't generally accompanied by itching eyes. Right now, all the trees are blooming and I have all the symptoms plus REALLY bad itchy eyes that even eye drops aren't helping so I know it's allergies.

Good advice. I think you’re right on the money.

What @scottbeammeup said - and my ears itch too!