Do you have a fever? Cold: Fever may occur at the same time as a cold. Allergic rhinitis: It does not cause fever. Ma Zhaoxin, Department of Otolaryngology, Shanghai Oriental Hospital Do you have itchy eyes and nose? Cold: No. Allergic rhinitis: usually yes. Do your symptoms last more than 7-10 days? Cold: Usually no more than 7-10 days. Allergic rhinitis: Symptoms can last for weeks or months. Are your symptoms seasonal? Cold: Not seasonal. Allergic rhinitis: Symptoms of rhinitis can occur at the same time each year.