Diseases and Conditions
Hay fever
Overview
Symptoms
Causes
Risk factors
Complications
Prevention
Diagnosis
Treatment
Lifestyle and home remedies
Alternative medicine
Preparing for an appointment
Symptoms
Hay fever signs and symptoms can include:
- Runny nose and nasal congestion
- Watery, itchy, red eyes (allergic conjunctivitis)
- Sneezing
- Cough
- Itchy nose, roof of mouth or throat
- Swollen, blue-colored skin under the eyes (allergic shiners)
- Postnasal drip
- Fatigue
Seasonal factors
Your hay fever signs and symptoms may start or worsen at a particular time of year. Triggers include:
- Tree pollen, which is common in early spring.
- Grass pollen, which is common in late spring and summer.
- Ragweed pollen, which is common in fall.
- Dust mites, cockroaches and dander from pets can be bothersome year-round (perennial). Symptoms caused by dander might worsen in winter, when houses are closed up.
- Spores from indoor and outdoor fungi and molds are considered both seasonal and perennial.
Hay fever or common cold?
Signs and symptoms can be similar, so it can be difficult to tell which one you have.
| Condition | Signs and symptoms | Onset | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hay fever | Runny nose with thin, watery discharge; no fever | Immediately after exposure to allergens | As long as you're exposed to allergens |
| Common cold | Runny nose with watery or thick yellow discharge; body aches; low-grade fever | One to three days after exposure to a cold virus | Three to seven days |
When to see a doctor
See your doctor if:
- You can't find relief from your hay fever symptoms
- Allergy medications don't provide relief or cause annoying side effects
- You have another condition that can worsen hay fever symptoms, such as nasal polyps, asthma or frequent sinus infections
Many people — especially children — get used to hay fever symptoms, so they might not seek treatment until the symptoms become severe. But getting the right treatment might offer relief.
