Hay Fever Vs. The Common Cold: Know The Difference

The symptoms of a hay fever and the common cold can often be mistaken with the other. Both problems cause sneezing, coughing and a runny nose. Even though hay fever and a cold can seem similar, there are distinct differences that set them apart. Learn about the differences so that you do not take the wrong medicine for the condition that you are struggling against.

Pay attention to the symptoms

Although many of the symptoms are similar, the common cold and hay fever do not have symptoms that occur in the same way. When you have a cold, it is likely that your symptoms will develop slowly.  A day or two after exposure you will start to notice the running nose, sneezing and sore throat.  With hay fever, it is likely that all of the symptoms will occur at the same time as you are exposed to the allergen. You may develop a runny nose and a cough at the same time. Sneezing may occur more regularly and it may even interrupt a sudden cough. Also, pay attention to the length of time symptoms persist.  Symptoms of hay fever will only last as long as you are exposed to the allergen, while cold symptoms typically last a few days to a week.

Differences in symptoms 

Hay fever has certain symptoms that do not develop with a cold. The itchiness is a particular sensation that is not likely to develop during a cold. It generally occurs around the eyes and nose, and can also develop in the throat. In some cases, the itching feels like an internal irritation that is hard to ignore.

Although the term “hay fever” can lead to the assumption that a high fever is a common symptom, it is actually a misnomer. During hay fever, the body temperature does not usually increase. It is rare that allergic reactions to pollen or other allergen in the air will cause a fever to develop. During a cold, a mild to moderate fever is a common symptom. The body temperature is likely to have a measurable increase, though the severity of the cold will often determine the exact temperature.

Another symptom that usually does not occur during hay fever is having aches and pains.  If you find yourself sore and achy you probably have a cold.


Hay Fever Treatment

For hay fever, there are two basic treatments. The simplest treatment is to avoid being exposed to the allergen, although this is not always easy during allergy season.  Most allergies are treated with antihistamines to relieve sneezing, watery and itchy eyes and a runny or itchy nose. A decongestant or a nasal spray can also be used to help reduce congestion, sneezing and put an end to a runny nose.

Cold Treatment

Colds are caused by viruses and there is no cure. The best treatment is to get some rest.  There are however many remedies to treat the symptoms of a cold. For aches and pains, take a pain reliever. Decongestant nasal sprays and cough syrup can also relieve symptoms. For other tips on treating a common cold, see our previous blog post, 5 Tips to Treat a Common Cold.