Flu vs. Allergies: Understanding Symptoms & Differences

The flu and common allergies have similar but distinct symptoms. Both may cause respiratory issues, ear infections and sinus drainage. However, the flu will also cause elevated fever, body aches and extreme weakness. A laboratory test at a medical clinic can determine if the person is suffering from the flu, which can best be treated if it is identified in the early stages of the illness.

Sinus and Ear Infections

• Individuals with chronic allergies may experience recurrent ear and sinus infections. The flu may also cause an ear infection to occur.

Coughing and Wheezing

• Allergies often cause sufferers to cough and wheeze when they are exposed to allergens. The flu may also cause respiratory problems, such as coughing or pneumonia.

Sneezing

• Allergies may cause repeated sneezing in response to allergens. This is not a common symptom of the flu.

Runny nose

• A runny nose may occur with both allergies and the flu.

Watery Eyes

• Allergies also may cause watery or itchy eyes. This is not a common symptom of the flu.

Fever

• The flu will produce a high fever over 102, whereas allergies do not cause a high fever.

Body Aches and Weakness

• The flu will also cause body aches and extreme weakness. Allergies will not cause body aches or weakness to occur.