The difference between hay fever and a cold

Updated
Illness Vs. Allergies
Illness Vs. Allergies




Spring is in the air, and, with the constant cycle of flora and fauna, it's hard to tell whether you're coming down with a cold, or having an allergic reaction to all that pollen.

Itchy eyes are a telltale sign of allergies. But a runny nose and sneezing? That could be either.

See also: Eight tips to help you survive allergy season

See also: These home remedies for colds actually work

As unpleasant as it may sound, checking the colour of your phlegm can reflect the difference between intruder and infection.

Thick and discoloured mucus means a cold or other larger problem, as this video demonstrates.

Advertisement