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Hay fever vs the common cold. Niamh McMillan, Superdrug's Pharmacy Superintendent, explains the differences between hay fever and the common cold. Length of symptoms Hay fever symptoms often last longer than the common cold. “Unfortunately for hay fever sufferers, symptoms can last weeks or even months. Colds typically run their course between 7-10 days.” Mucus colour and texture Both hay fever and a cold usually come with a stuffy or runny nose, but you can tell the difference by looking at the mucus. ”Hay fever sufferers will typically have mucus that is clear and watery. It's more likely to be a cold if the mucus is thick and yellow.” Sore throat If a sore throat is one of your symptoms, you probably have a cold. ”A sore throat is a common precursor to the common cold, whereas you're unlikely to experience a sore throat with hay fever.” Facial itchiness Meanwhile, a common symptom of hay fever is an itchy face. ”Itchy and watery eyes, along with throat irritation are all linked to hay fever, as a direct response to the allergen, pollen.” "On particularly high pollen days, protect your skin and when indoors, try to keep windows closed to avoid over-exposure. Hayfever Wipes can be used to wipe your face of pollen throughout the day.” THIS VIDEO MUST NOT BE EDITED FOR LENGTH TO COMBINE WITH OTHER CONTENT