Hay Fever vs. Summer Cold: How to Tell the Difference

Sniffling, sneezing, watery eyes—it’s hard to tell whether you’re battling allergies or catching a cold, especially in the middle of summer. While the symptoms can seem nearly identical, hay fever and summer colds have different causes—and different treatments.

Here’s how to tell which one you’re dealing with, and when to contact a BASS Medical Group Primary Care Provider.

What Causes Hay Fever?

Hay fever (also called seasonal allergic rhinitis) is triggered by allergens like pollen, grass, or mold. It’s your immune system overreacting to something harmless in the environment.

Common summer allergens:

• Tree and grass pollen
• Outdoor mold spores
• Weeds like ragweed (late summer)
• Pet dander (if you’re indoors with pets more often)

What Causes a Summer Cold?

A summer cold is caused by a viral infection—often enteroviruses that circulate in warmer months. Unlike hay fever, colds are contagious and spread through person-to-person contact.

Key Symptom Differences

When to See a Doctor

If your symptoms last longer than 10 days, worsen over time, or include a fever or severe fatigue, it’s time to check in with a doctor. You might be dealing with an infection—or untreated allergies that need medical attention.

Our Primary Care Providers can help:

• Determine whether your symptoms are viral or allergy-related
• Recommend treatment options like antihistamines or decongestants
• Refer you to specialists if needed

Can You Have Both?

Yes! It’s possible to have hay fever and still catch a cold. Allergies may even make you more vulnerable to infections by irritating your airways.

Treatment Options

For hay fever:

• Antihistamines (e.g., loratadine, cetirizine)
• Nasal corticosteroid sprays
• Avoiding known allergens
• Air purifiers or HEPA filters indoors

For summer colds:

• Rest and hydration
• Over-the-counter pain relievers
• Saline nasal sprays
• Avoid close contact with others

Final Thoughts

Understanding the difference between hay fever and a summer cold can help you get the right treatment faster. If you’re unsure, don’t wait it out—contact a BASS Primary Care Provider for a personalized evaluation and relief plan.