Dr. Bryan Betty: Hay fever vs the Common Cold

Often people experience sneezing and congestion and are unclear of the difference between a cold and hay fever - very common in spring.  What is the difference?  This time of the year can be confusing especially with a late carry over of winter illnesses. Basically, hay fever is an allergic reaction to pollen, dust or pets. The common cold is an infection caused by a virus most often: rhinovirus. Hay-fever comes on suddenly, lasts for days to weeks, often frequent sneezing, and red itchy watery eyes, itchy throat, nose. No temperature. Common Cold: Comes on gradually over days, last 5 to 10 days, thick yellow nose discharge, mild eye irritation, less sneezing, often temperature and muscle ache.   How should you tell the difference?  If itch eyes and nose think hay fever. If you feel achy and unwell more likely a cold. Hay fever does tend to occur at certain times of the year – especially spring, or lawn mowing. With a cold often have ben in contact with someone who is sick     How do you treat them?  Hay fever :  It is important to try and avoid irritants : keep windows closed especially on windy days, shower after being outside.  We use anti-histamines (stops itch, sneezing), often eye drops(stops watery eyes) and nasal spray(stops nasal congestion).  Common Cold:  Antibiotics do not help – it’s a virus. Stay at home - don’t spread. Paracetamol or ibuprofen for aches and temperature. Nasal spray decongestants for nose Throat lozenges for sore throat. Usually, will improve over a week.  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.