In the colder months, when colds and flu are common, it is difficult to determine the cause of symptoms and appropriate treatment. Learn to distinguish each of them based on the symptoms.
While for some the crisp air and red and orange leaves are signs of the seasonal delights that accompany the autumn and winter months, for others they are signs that it is also time to prepare for the arrival of an unwelcome guest: allergic rhinitis. .
Often associated with spring and summer, the allergic rhinitis season extends into autumn and winter due to changes in temperatures and weather patterns, which result in longer periods of pollen production for several species of plant.
The change has consequences for everyone, not just those suffering from allergic rhinitis. Often in the colder months, when colds and flu are common, it is difficult to determine both the cause of the symptoms and the appropriate treatment.
How to identify and treat
Although several symptoms overlap, it is possible, by analyzing them, to distinguish between colds, flu and allergic rhinitis.
Sneezing and a runny or stuffy nose are common in both allergic rhinitis and colds.
However, if you also have red, watery, or swollen eyes and an itchy throat, it’s probably allergic rhinitis, as these symptoms are much less common with colds. But if your throat is sore and you also have a cough, it’s probably a cold.
Flu symptoms are rarely confused with those of allergic rhinitis, although they can be similar to those of a cold.
Cough is the most common crossover symptom between colds and flu. Other symptoms, such as a sore throat, sneezing, or runny nose, can sometimes occur with the flu, although they are less common.
Likewise, chills, tiredness and muscle aches – which are common with the flu – can sometimes occur in people with a cold, although they are less characteristic.
The best way to distinguish a cold from the flu is if you have a fever and if you experience gastrointestinal symptoms, such as vomiting or diarrhea, which can sometimes occur with the flu.
Another symptom to watch out for is temporary loss of smell and taste. Although this sign can occur in cases of allergic rhinitis, it is usually accompanied by a stuffy nose. If you notice a loss of smell or taste, but your nose isn’t blocked, you may have a cold or flu.
Strengthen your immune system
Here are some strategies to strengthen the immune system and avoid being hit by colds, flu or allergic rhinitis:
Strengthen your gut: A diet rich in amino acids, vitamins, minerals and fiber is essential for immune cells and consequently for the immune system. The Mediterranean diet is considered a good option as it contains plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds, and protein sources such as fish, meat or plant-based alternatives. Also, consider probiotics, especially blends containing them Lactobacilli OR Bifidobacteriumwhich can improve the immune response and reduce the severity of infections.
Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption weaken the immune system. Consuming five or six drinks in one night can suppress your immune system for up to 24 hours.
Prioritize sleep: Sleep is important for maintaining immune function as it reduces inflammation in the body. Try to sleep more, at least seven hours a night. Sleeping less can help increase your chances of suffering from common diseases.
Managing stress: Cortisol, the stress hormone, negatively affects the cells of the immune system, altering their function. It also increases histamine levels in the blood, making allergy symptoms worse. Practicing mindfulness can help control stress and, consequently, strengthen the immune system.
Exercise: Doing moderate-intensity physical activity (such as a brisk walk or ballroom dancing) can improve your immune response. But it’s important to find the right fit, as prolonged, intense physical activity, without rest between workouts, can worsen immune function.
Get vaccinated: Vaccination is essential. But since you can only get vaccinated against the flu virus, other preventative measures — such as washing your hands and wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces — can help protect you from both the flu and colds.
Other measures that may help prevent symptoms in those who tend to have allergic rhinitis:
Allergens: Avoid allergens that trigger symptoms. On days with high pollen counts, consider staying home, keeping windows closed, and using HEPA filters indoors or an N95 mask to filter out pollen particles.
Antihistamines: Over-the-counter antihistamines, such as cetirisin or loratadine, may be effective in controlling the symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Ideally, they should be taken before exposure to allergens, under medical supervision, and continued use for the duration of symptoms.
Consider immunotherapy: Allergy injections, or immunotherapy, can reduce the symptoms of allergic rhinitis by reducing the immune system’s sensitivity to allergens over time, resulting in long-lasting improvement. For it to be effective, immunotherapy must be repeated several times.
Making just a few of these lifestyle changes can, however, make a difference in strengthening your immune system, reducing your risk of getting sick or experiencing symptoms of allergic rhinitis during the colder months.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
