Hay fever or a cold? How to tell the difference
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A blocked nose, a lot of sneezing and feeling run down. At this time of year most people assume it’s a cold. Sometimes it is. Sometimes it’s an allergy that has been with you for weeks.
Knowing which one you’re dealing with matters, because what helps is different.
The quick test: how long has it lasted?
A cold usually clears up within one to two weeks. Hay fever and other allergies last for as long as you’re around the trigger, which can mean weeks or months. If your “cold” has outstayed its welcome, an allergy is worth considering.
Side by side
| Sign | More like a cold | More like an allergy |
|---|---|---|
| How it starts | Builds over a day or two | Can start soon after contact with the trigger |
| How long it lasts | Usually 1 to 2 weeks | Weeks or months, while the trigger is around |
| Itchy eyes, nose or throat | Less common | Very common |
| Aches and a high temperature | Can happen | Not typical |
| Mucus | Often thickens over a few days | Usually stays thin and clear |
| Pattern | Comes and goes once | Comes back in the same places or seasons |
Look for the pattern
Allergies tend to repeat. Worse every spring or summer points to pollen. Worse in the bedroom or first thing in the morning points to dust mites. Worse in a damp room points to mould. Worse after cuddling the dog points to pet dander.
A simple trick is to keep a note on your phone for two weeks: where you were, what the weather was doing and how you felt. Patterns show up faster than you’d think.
When to see a pharmacist or GP
- Your symptoms are getting worse or not improving.
- Pharmacy treatments haven’t helped.
- You’re wheezing, short of breath or have tightness in your chest.
- You have a high temperature that won’t settle.
A pharmacist is a good first stop. They can talk you through the options and tell you if you need to see a GP.
Healthy living starts with the breath. Join the Respahealth list at the bottom of this page for pollen-season updates and first access to the 2027 Season Pack.
This article is general information, not medical advice. If your symptoms are getting worse or not settling, speak to a pharmacist or your GP.