Viral Diseases: List of Types & Contagiousness, Treatment, Prevention
Is It A Cold Or Is It Hay Fever? The Key Differences Explained
Both hay fever and a cold can cause sneezing and a runny nose (Getty Images/iStockphoto)
As the tell-tale signs of sneezing and sniffling fill the air, many are left wondering: is it a common cold or the dreaded hay fever?
With pollen levels steadily climbing, distinguishing between the two can be tricky, but crucial for effective symptom management.
We know that a cold is caused by a virus and hay fever by allergens in the atmosphere, but often the symptoms seem the same.
To help navigate this seasonal confusion, we spoke with Dr Chun Tang who highlighted the key differences between these often-confused ailments.
Are there specific triggers for hay fever that don't apply to a cold?"A cold is caused by a virus, usually a rhinovirus, which spreads through coughs, sneezes, or touching contaminated surfaces," explains Tang. "Whereas hay fever is an allergic reaction to airborne allergens like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander.
"The key difference is that colds are infectious, while hay fever is triggered by allergens in the environment."
What are the typical symptoms of hay fever?"Both conditions can cause sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, and general fatigue," highlights Tang.
However, there are some key telltale differences to be aware of.
"Hay fever is more likely to cause itchy eyes, throat, and nose, along with watery eyes," explains Tang. "A cold, on the other hand, often comes with a sore throat, cough, and sometimes a fever, which hay fever doesn't usually cause."
Itchy eyes is a clue that it's probably hay fever not a cold (Alamy/PA)
The onset of hay fever also tends to be much faster than a cold.
"Hay fever can come on quite suddenly, especially when pollen levels spike," says Tang. "One moment you're fine, and the next, your nose is streaming.
"A cold, however, tends to build up gradually over a few days, starting with mild symptoms before peaking."
Hay fever symptoms are also typically much more persistent.
"A cold usually lasts a week or two, as your immune system fights off the virus," says Tang. "Hay fever, unfortunately, can persist for weeks or even months, depending on how long you're exposed to the allergen, especially during peak pollen seasons."
Can you experience hay fever and a cold at the same time?Yes, you can have hay fever and a cold at the same time
"Yes, and it can be pretty miserable," says Tang. "If you have hay fever and catch a cold, your symptoms may feel worse because your immune system is already in overdrive reacting to allergens.
"You might notice extra congestion, fatigue, or an increase in sneezing and coughing."
Are there any tests that can identify if it's hay fever or a cold?"If you're unsure, allergy tests can confirm hay fever by checking for reactions to common allergens," says Tang. "A cold doesn't have a specific test, but your doctor can usually diagnose it based on your symptoms.
"If you have a fever, aches, and feel run down, it's more likely to be a cold than hay fever."
How to treat both conditionsThese two sniffly conditions require different treatments.
"Hay fever is best managed with antihistamines, nasal sprays, and avoiding triggers like pollen or pet hair," says Tang. "There are also hay fever treatments that can ease symptoms."
A cold, however, needs rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies.
"For example, decongestants and throat lozenges can help ease symptoms while your body fights off the virus," says Tang. "When in doubt, speak to your doctor for the best treatment advice."
Scarlet Fever: Factsheet On Nursing Childhood Infectious Diseases
Scarlet fever (scarlatina) is an infectious disease, most commonly seen between the ages of 2 and 8 years. This factsheet explains its causes, prevention and treatment. It is part of a collection on childhood infections
Citation: Agnew T (2025) Childhood infectious diseases: scarlet fever. Nursing Times [online]; 121: 4.
Author: Thelma Agnew is a freelance health journalist.
IntroductionScarlet fever (scarlatina) is a highly contagious bacterial infection that mainly affects children aged 2-8 years. Historically a dangerous disease associated with high mortality rates, the advent of antibiotic treatment has made the disease less serious and less common. However, complications from scarlet fever can be life-threatening. In England, its prevalence has increased since 2014, with 15,000-30,000 cases currently diagnosed each year.
CausesScarlet fever is caused by bacteria called streptococcus pyogenes, or group A streptococcus. It is spread through contact with an infected person's mucus or saliva. This can be present on surfaces or objects such as cups, plates, tables or toys. The infection can also be transmitted via airborne droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes or breathes.
DiagnosisConsider a diagnosis of scarlet fever if a child has typical clinical features (see box). Scarlet fever can often be diagnosed by examining the tongue and the rash. However, differential diagnosis needs to be considered if the symptoms are not typical of scarlet fever, particularly if the child is older. Conditions including rubella, slapped-cheek syndrome (parvovirus B19) and measles can present with similar symptoms. If you suspect scarlet fever, inform the local health protection team within three days.
PreventionAdvise parents or carers to keep their child away from nursery or school for ≥24 hours after starting antibiotics and ensure they complete the course, even if symptoms improve, to protect themselves and avoid transmission. Stopping antibiotics early can mean someone with scarlet fever still carries the bacteria in their throat and can infect others, even if they appear well.
Encourage frequent handwashing with soap and water and prompt disposal of tissues. The child should avoid sharing anything they have touched, such as utensils, towels and bedding. They should also avoid contact with anyone at high risk from complications of scarlet fever, such as people with a weakened immune system.
Treatment/managementThe first line of treatment for scarlet fever is a 10-day course of antibiotics, such as phenoxymethylpenicillin (penicillin V). Taking antibiotics shortens the duration of the illness and reduces the risk of complications and transmission.
Advise parents on prevention and self-care; provide written information, for example, from the NHS. The child should drink adequate fluids and can take paracetamol or ibuprofen to ease symptoms, if there are no contraindications. However, parents should be advised to always administer as per the guidance on the packaging and to seek advice from a health professional if the child is taking other medications or has a pre-existing health condition. Soft foods can be easier on a sore throat, while calamine lotion or antihistamines can help ease discomfort from the rash.
Most children with scarlet fever recover within seven days. Children with persistent or worsening symptoms should be referred to secondary care. Ensure parents are aware of possible complications in the weeks after the original infection.
ComplicationsMost children with scarlet fever do not experience any complications. However, while rare, complications can occur during or in the weeks after the infection and include ear infection, throat abscess, pneumonia, sinusitis, cellulitis, arthritis, septicaemia and meningitis.
Pus-forming (suppurative) complications caused by local spread of the infection, such as acute sinusitis and throat abscess, tend to occur early in the illness. Non-suppurative complications tend to develop later, such as acute rheumatic fever (which can cause heart damage and reactive arthritis).
Clinical features/symptomsInitial features include:
After 12-48 hours, a characteristic rash develops. It usually starts on the chest and stomach before spreading to other parts of the body, although the palms and soles are not usually affected. The rash is red and 'pinpoint', with a rough texture like sandpaper. On Black or brown skin, it may be harder to see. Skin may peel as the rash fades, particularly on the fingertips, toes and groin.
Other clinical features are:
Complete series: factsheets on nursing childhood infectious disease
What's Causing The Rash On My Hands And Feet?
Key takeawaysRashes are marked by a change in the color and texture of your skin. They may have blisters, and they may itch or hurt. Rashes that break out on your hands and feet have many underlying causes.
Keep reading to learn more about common conditions that may cause rashes on the hands and feet. We'll also look at treatment options you can try at home, or under a doctor's care.
The hand and foot rash caused by this condition sometimes causes blistering, which may be painful, but typically not itchy.
Treatment
Symptoms of HFMD usually get better on their own within 7 to 10 days.
Granuloma annulare is a chronic, degenerative skin condition with an unknown cause.
There are five recognized types:
The most common type, localized granuloma annulare, causes raised, rounded skin plaques or papules that may form on the feet, hands, and fingers.
These plaques and papules don't typically itch.
Granuloma annulare is more common in females and tends to occur during young adulthood.
Treatment
The rings usually clear up on their own without treatment, but it may take up to 10 years. Around 1 in 2 people with localized granuloma annular will also experience symptoms again within 2 years of remission.
Some additional treatments for granuloma annulare may include:
Blisters can become large and painful, and may last for several weeks. Eczema outbreaks often coincide with seasonal allergies, during spring and summer.
Treatment
There's no cure for dyshidrotic eczema, but some remedies may help you manage symptoms. These may include:
If home remedies don't work, a doctor may recommend medical treatments like corticosteroids and light therapy.
Impetigo is a very contagious bacterial skin infection that often begins with an oozing rash of red sores around the mouth and nose, which may spread to the hands and feet via touch.
When the sores burst, they develop brownish-yellow crusts.
An impetigo rash can be itchy, sore, and painful. The condition most commonly occurs in infants and children.
Treatment
It's estimated that up to 4 in 100 people with psoriasis experience palmoplantar pustulosis.
The exact cause is unknown, but researchers suggest a combination of genetic and environmental factors may contribute to the condition.
Treatment
Hand-foot syndrome, also known as acral erythema or palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia, is a side effect of certain chemotherapy drugs used for cancer treatment.
It's characterized by pain, swelling, and skin discoloration in the palms and soles of the hands and feet. It can also cause tingling, burning, and blisters. In severe cases, deeply cracked skin and extreme pain may occur.
Treatment
The best way to treat a rash on the hands and feet caused by chemotherapy drugs is to stop taking the medication. However, this is not always possible.
Techniques like applying cold compresses, taking pain relievers, and elevating the affected body part may help relieve pain.
Speak with a doctor if you experience hand-foot syndrome. They may be able to change the dosage or type of medication you're taking.
Athlete's foot is caused by a contagious fungal infection. It usually starts between the toes and can spread to the entire foot. This condition is marked by a scaly, red rash that itches.
In some instances, athlete's foot may spread to the hands. This is more likely to happen if you pick at or scratch the rash on your feet.
Athlete's foot is most commonly caused by keeping very sweaty feet trapped in shoes. It may also be transmitted through locker room and shower floors.
Treatment
Treatment for athlete's foot may include antifungal creams and maintaining proper foot hygiene.
Several home remedies and OTC medications may help relieve pain and symptoms of rashes on the hands and feet.
Consider speaking with a healthcare professional about possible remedies and OTC medications before using them to help prevent possible side effects.
Consider speaking with a healthcare professional if your rash is painful, accompanied by fever, or looks infected. You should also seek medical attention if the rash doesn't clear up easily with home treatments.
A doctor may be able to diagnose the rash visually after taking an oral history. In some instances, they may order diagnostic tests, such as:
If a child has a rash that does not clear up within 1 or 2 days, they should see a pediatrician. This will help determine the cause of the rash, and provide relief for their symptoms.
If your child has sores in their mouth or throat that prohibit them from drinking, they should also be seen by a doctor to avoid complications like dehydration.
Remember to wash your hands if you have a contagious skin rash or care for someone who does to help prevent transmission.
What is a viral rash on the hands and feet?
According to the CDC, a viral rash on the hands and feet may be caused by certain enteroviruses, such as coxsackievirus A16, coxsackievirus A6, and enterovirus 71.
What autoimmune disease causes rashes on hands and feet?
Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune condition that may cause painful blisters on the palms of your hands and soles of your feet.
Rashes on the hands and feet may be caused by a wide range of conditions. These types of rashes sometimes clear up on their own or can be treated at home.
Some rashes respond better to treatments performed or prescribed by a doctor, depending on their underlying conditions. Speak with a healthcare professional for any rash accompanied by fever or pain.
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