SNEEZY QUESTION

Have you got a cold or is it hay fever? Knowing what you're up against can greatly impact how you manage symptoms, says CAMILLA FOSTER

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HIGH pollen counts are expected after the recent warm weather, and it's common to experience symptoms such as sneezing, a runny nose, or a scratchy throat.

However, how can we tell if it's hay fever or a cold?

The onset of hay fever tends to be much faster than a cold.

"Hay fever can come on quite suddenly, especially when pollen levels spike," says Dr Tang. "One moment you're fine, and the next, your nose is streaming.

"A cold, however, tends to build up gradually over a few days, starting with mild symptoms before peaking."

How long do symptoms of hay fever typically last compared with a cold?

Hay fever symptoms are typically much more persistent.

"A cold usually lasts a week or two, as your immune system fights off the virus," says Dr Tang.

"Hay fever, unfortunately, can persist for weeks or even months, depending on how long you're exposed to the allergen, especially during peak pollen seasons."