Health Notes are quick references to a variety of health issues. They are added regularly and there is no specific order although we try to present articles which are seasonal in nature. As with many of our health related articles please consult with your physician before taking medication or changing treatments.

Allergy or a cold?

Allergies affect millions of people. There are four major types: respiratory, Skin and food, drug and environmental.

Hay fever is one of the most chronic forms of allergies in the United States, affecting some 10 % of the population. Hay fever can cause you to sniffle, drip and itch your way through the spring and summer months.

Sometimes it’s difficult to distinguish between hay fever and a cold. Here are some clues:

• A cold lasts only a week or less while allergy may persist through one or more seasons.

• Sore throat, fever and aches and pains are more likely caused by a cold.

• Nasal secretions caused by a cold tend to be thicker than those caused by a fever.