Pollen allergies are also referred to as hay fever or allergic rhinitis. Cold-like symptoms are caused by an allergic reaction to pollen in the air or from contact with pollen on the body or clothing. The symptoms are often worse during the spring, summer and fall, according to the Mayo Clinic. Symptoms of pollen allergy are similar to other allergies and range from mild to moderate.
Cold-Like Symptoms
Pollen allergies can appear to be very similar to the common cold. The symptoms, according to the Mayo Clinic, include runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing and coughing.
Other Symptoms
Pollen allergies differ from most colds in the production of several uncomfortable symptoms. According to the National Library of Medicine and the Mayo Clinic, these symptoms include itchy nose, itchy roof of the mouth, itchy throat, sinus pressure or headache, facial pain, swollen eyes, red eyes, darkness under the eyes and a reduction in senses like smell or taste.
Severe Symptoms
Pollen allergies can lead to symptoms that interfere with everyday activities. Individuals can struggle to sleep due to breathing problems, pain or persistent symptoms. This can contribute to fatigue and irritability, which make normal activities hard to carry out.
