There are three easy to spot tell tale signs that make it simple to distinguish hay fever brought on by pollen from the common cold. Hay fever is one of the most common allergies in the world and effects up to 1 in 5 people at some point in their life time. But despite it being so prevalent, many people don't know exactly what the symptoms are or recognise its difference to a common cold.
Or, even when they do, some are still at a loss at how to treat it. The main difference between hay fever and common cold is that they are caused by two entirely different things - meaning they also have slightly different effects on the body. A common cold is caused by viruses - most commonly a variety of rhinovirus - and are very easily spread between people through the air or through contact.
Around 1 in 5 people will experience hay fever at some point in their lifetime ( Image: Getty Images) Hay fever, however, is an allergic reaction that some people develop to inhaled substances from the air. This can include dust, mould, animal fur and of course, pollen. During an allergic reaction, the body's immune system over reacts to harmless materials such as these, releasing a load of chemicals in attempt to combat them that in turn cause symptoms some of know all too well - sneezing, runny nose and itchy, irritated and watery eyes However, many of the symptoms experienced during a bout of hay fever are similar to that caused by the common cold and despite popular belief, it is possible to catc.
