How can I differentiate between a cold and a Needle Grass pollen allergy?

It can sometimes be difficult to differentiate between a common cold and a Needle Grass pollen allergy, as both can present similar symptoms such as sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, and watery eyes. However, there are distinct differences that can help make the identification clearer.

Duration of symptoms is a key factor to consider. A cold typically lasts for about one to two weeks, while allergies persist as long as you're exposed to the allergen, potentially ongoing for several weeks if the Needle Grass pollens are present.

The presence or absence of fever can also help you differentiate between the two. While a cold might be accompanied by a fever, allergies do not cause fever.

Another difference can be the color of nasal discharge. A clear, thin, watery discharge is typically associated with allergies whereas with a cold, the nasal discharge tends to be thicker and can change from clear to yellow or green.

Itching is also a significant symptom associated with allergies. If you’re experiencing itchy or watery eyes, itchy throat or itchy inner ears, it's more likely to be an allergy.

Finally, if symptoms occur or worsen in a particular environment such as a field of grass, it could indicate an allergy as opposed to a cold.

If you still have trouble identifying whether it's a cold or an allergy, please seek a professional medical advice. They may perform an allergy test to confirm if your symptoms are due to Needle Grass pollen. If confirmed, they may prescribe antihistamines, decongestants, or nasal steroid sprays to help manage your allergic reactions.