With lockdown restrictions easing and the weather starting to brighten up, people across the country are looking forward to spending more time outdoors.
And whilst spring brings lighter evenings and more sunshine, it also marks the start of hayfever season.
With pollen on the rise, it can be difficult to distinguish between hayfever, a common cold or even COVID-19 as some of the symptoms are consistent between the different conditions.
To assist, Boots UK has created an infographic on Boots.com.
Boots Chief Pharmacist, Marc Donovan said: “Hayfever doesn’t cause a high temperature and most people do not feel unwell.
"Symptoms include sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, itchy red watery eyes or an itchy throat.
"To help keep symptoms in check, consider putting a barrier balm such as petroleum jelly around the nostrils to trap pollen and wear wraparound sunglasses to help keep pollen out of your eyes.”
On the common cold, Marc said: “Colds which can still occur during warmer months, usually involve sneezing and coughing, along with a sore throat, headaches and sometimes a loss of taste and smell.
"You could consider taking pain killers to help ease aches or relieve a blocked nose with a decongestant nasal spray or decongestant tablets.
"You can always ask a member of our pharmacy team for advice or to check if a treatment is suitable for you.”
Advising on the key symptoms of Covid-19 Marc said: “The most common symptoms are a high temperature, a new continuous cough, and a loss or a change to sense of smell or taste.
"If you have any of the three main COVID-19 symptoms, please follow the most up to date government guidance. Stay at home and request a COVID-19 test as soon as possible.”
