Cold or allergies? Spring symptoms can be hard to tell apart

As winter gives way to warmer weather, many people are noticing the return of sneezing, congestion and itchy eyes — but it’s not always clear whether it’s a cold or allergies.

“It can be quite tricky,” said Jill Hubick, community care and education manager with Lung Saskatchewan.

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Allergy symptoms often mirror a cold, including itchy eyes and skin, sneezing, congestion, headaches and coughing. For those with asthma, allergies can also trigger shortness of breath, chest tightness and, in some cases, medical emergencies.

One key difference is how long symptoms last. Hubick said colds typically clear within a few days, while allergies tend to persist.

As the snow melts, allergens that were buried over winter begin to surface.

“You must look for things like snow molds, what was underneath the snow,” said Hubick. “Often, there’s a lot of decaying leaves and things that were under the snow that are now being exposed this time of year.”

Dust is another early-season trigger.

“When the snow melts, there’s a lot of dust… we haven’t had that good rain yet… so all those things play a factor,” she said.

Tree buds also release pollen, with levels often higher in the morning, on windy days or before a thunderstorm.

While medication is the most effective way to manage allergies, there are simple ways to limit exposure.

“When you’re outside, you can wear a hat, wear sunglasses,” said Hubick. “That’s going to help protect your eyes from allergens.”

Wearing long sleeves while doing yard work can also help.

Hubick recommends using a saline rinse regularly.

“I recommend every single person that has allergies to try a saline rinse,” she said. “All it’s going to do is keep your nose from being dry… which will reduce symptoms.”

Other options include nasal sprays and oral medications.

Seasonal allergies can worsen asthma symptoms, making it important to monitor changes.

“If people are experiencing (symptoms) more than two times a week… that’s a sign to do something different,” said Hubick.

She encourages people to have an asthma action plan in place with their health-care provider and to carry a reliever medication.

Accessing allergy testing in Saskatchewan can take time due to limited specialists.

“But if you’re experiencing severe symptoms… then this would be an appropriate avenue for you,” said Hubick.

Specialists can offer additional treatments, including immunotherapy, once specific allergens are identified.

While allergy season shouldn’t keep people indoors, recognizing symptoms and managing exposure can make it easier to enjoy spring.

Read more:

• Saskatchewan flooding: Highways closed as spring melt covers roads
• ‘Very expensive summer’ ahead, as gas prices could hit $2 a litre: Petroleum analyst
• Saskatchewan farmer pulls baby out of burning van after ‘horrific’ crash on Highway 7