Many of us have experienced the annoying symptoms that come with hay fever or a cold, leaving us thinking which one we’re dealing with.
Understanding the symptoms of hayfever vs a cold can help you manage your symptoms more effectively.
In this guide, we’ll break down what hay fever and colds are, their key differences, symptoms, duration, contagiousness, onset, and treatments.
Whether you’re sniffling in spring or sneezing in winter, knowing whether it’s hay fever or a cold can make so much difference in finding relief.
What is Hayfever?
Knowing the difference between hayfever and cold means first understanding what hayfever is.
Hayfever, or allergic rhinitis, is a seasonal allergic reaction triggered by allergens like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander.
It is characterised by symptoms of hayfever such as sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy eyes, and throat irritation.
Hayfever typically occurs during specific times of the year when certain allergens are prevalent, such as spring and summer.
Allergy tests can help determine specific triggers, allowing for better management of hayfever symptoms.
What is a Cold?
A cold, or viral upper respiratory infection, is caused by various viruses, most commonly the rhinovirus.
Cold symptoms include coughing, sore throat, sneezing, congestion, fatigue, and sometimes a low-grade fever.
Colds can occur at any time of the year but are more common during the colder months.
Unlike hay fever, colds are contagious and can be spread through droplets from coughs and sneezes or by touching contaminated surfaces.
The start of hayfever symptoms develop shortly after exposure to allergens, while cold symptoms may take a few days to appear after being exposed to a virus.
Hayfever symptoms can last as long as you’re exposed to allergens, whereas cold symptoms usually resolve within one to two weeks.
Hayfever is not contagious, while colds can be easily spread from person to person.
Hayfever is triggered by allergies, whereas colds are caused by viruses.
Symptoms
Hayfever symptoms include sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy eyes, throat irritation, and sometimes fatigue.
Cold symptoms may include coughing, sore throat, sneezing, congestion, fatigue, and occasionally a low-grade fever.
Both hayfever and colds can cause nasal congestion, but hayfever is more likely to include itchy eyes and throat.
Fatigue is common with both hay fever and colds, but it tends to be more pronounced with a cold.
Duration
Hayfever symptoms can persist as long as you’re exposed to allergens, which can be weeks or even months.
Cold symptoms typically last for about one to two weeks, depending on the severity of the infection and individual immune response.
Hayfever symptoms may improve with avoidance of allergens or treatment, while colds usually resolve on their own.
If cold symptoms persist beyond two weeks or worsen, it might mean a secondary bacterial infection and will require medical attention.
Contagiousness
Hayfever is not contagious since it’s an allergic reaction to specific allergens and cannot be spread from person to person.
Colds are highly contagious and can be spread through airborne droplets or by touching contaminated surfaces.
Cold viruses can remain infectious on surfaces for several hours, increasing the risk of transmission.
Practising good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing and avoiding close contact with sick individuals, can help prevent the spread of colds.
Onset
Hayfever symptoms typically start shortly after exposure to allergens, such as pollen, dust, or pet dander.
Cold symptoms may take a few days to develop after exposure to a cold virus, as the virus replicates and begins to cause symptoms.
The beginning of hayfever symptoms is often seasonal and corresponds with the presence of specific allergens in the environment.
Cold viruses can be transmitted year-round but are more common during colder months when people spend more time indoors nearby.
Treatments
Antihistamines are commonly used to relieve hayfever symptoms by blocking the effects of histamine released during an allergic reaction.
Nasal corticosteroids can reduce inflammation and alleviate nasal congestion associated with hay fever.
Allergy shots (immunotherapy) may be recommended for individuals with severe hayfever symptoms who do not respond to other treatments.
Avoiding allergens, such as staying indoors during high pollen counts or using air purifiers, can help reduce hayfever symptoms.
Knowing whether you’re dealing with hay fever or a cold can help you choose the most appropriate hayfever treatment and management strategies.
If you’re unsure about your symptoms or need advice on managing hay fever, consider consulting with a healthcare professional.
WePrescribe offers a range of services and products tailored to individuals suffering from hay fever, including prescription medications and advice on symptom management.
Don’t let hayfever or a cold hold you back from enjoying life to the fullest—take control of your symptoms with the right information and support.
For further guidance or a more detailed assessment of your condition, you can book a video consultation with one of our healthcare professionals.
Whether you need a prescription, advice, or just someone to talk to, contact us today.
