Spring is packed with some of our favorite things — picnics, outdoor adventures and longer, warmer days — but it’s also when allergies act up and cold season lingers. Sometimes it can be tough to tell if you’re coming down with a cold or if your sinuses are just revolting against the high pollen count, and changes in the weather. If you find yourself sniffling and aren’t sure whether you need chicken soup and Netflix or new allergy medication- don’t sweat it. AFC Urgent Care West Hartford is here to help you answer the question; ‘do I have spring allergies or a cold?’. Below are the clear symptoms to help you tell the difference.

Do I have spring allergies or a cold?

Here are some of the basic differences between spring allergies and a cold:

• Spring allergy symptoms include itchy, red watery eyes, runny nose, rapid sneezing clear mucus, and sometimes even asthma symptoms.
• Colds often include most allergy symptoms but can also sometimes include a low grade fever, a hacking cough, muscle aches and chills and mucus is usually thick and yellow.
• Duration is a key symptoms when trying to distinguish between these two. A cold normally does not last as long as allergies can. Typical colds last between 5 -10 days. Allergies can go on for weeks and sometimes even months if not treated.

How can I control my spring allergy symptoms?

There are preventative steps you can take when it comes to spring allergies (link opens in a new tab). Try out these tips to prevent illness from taking over your life during the high pollen and mold season:

• Stay indoors on high pollen count days
• Try using your air conditioner when indoors rather than opening doors or windows
• Take frequent showers when coming in from outdoors to wash away potential allergen triggers
• While in the car, use the air conditioner to filter pollen rather than opening windows

Sometimes, however, you may need to turn to medications for allergy relief. Over the counter nasal sprays such as Nasonex or Zyrtec often work, especially if administered a few weeks prior to allergy season, or drugs such as Clariton, Allegra or Benadryl can often do the trick.

If you or a loved one is suffering from spring allergies or a cold, don’y worry, relief awaits. Walk in to  AFC Urgent Care West Hartford at 1030 Boulevard, so we can find out what you have, and get you back on track to enjoying your spring.