How to tell the difference between a virus and a fall allergy

If you sniffle or have an itchy throat, you might think you’re sick. There are many reasons to worry about it since the pandemic started.Autumn and winter usually usher in It’s cold and flu season, but there may be other causes for your symptoms.

What are the most common fall allergy triggers?

You may know that pollen around you can trigger allergies, but fall triggers are often overlooked.Dr. Jeanne Lomas, Director of Allergy Services wellnow allergysay that is Some are more surprising, but normal— Fall Allergy Triggers:

• Weeds like ragweed “are the most common fall allergy triggers in most of the United States,” Lomas said.
• Mold growing on wet leaves
• Stinging insects such as yellow jackets and wasps

• Indoor allergens such as animal dander and mites. You may not have noticed in the warmer months when you spend more time outside.

Lomas recommends taking extra precautions when working outdoors in the fall. Biting insects are most active in late summer and autumn, and most aggressive in August, September and October, and can cause severe allergic reactions.

She also said that before the pandemic, before people started wearing masks more often, allergists noticed what they called the “September spike.” Pollen levels such as ragweed are also shown to be elevated.according to Air purifier manufacturer AprilAireFall allergies can occur during what is known as the “second summer,” or fall, when temperatures are unseasonably warm as temperatures can keep pollen circulating.

How do I know if I have a disease or allergy?

As Lomas pointed out, “a lot of symptoms overlap between allergies and infections,” so it can be difficult to understand what’s going on. It’s possible, but eye symptoms such as redness and swelling, especially when accompanied by itching, are much more common with allergies. This includes itchy eyes, but also itchy ears and nose. You don’t need all three.

On the other hand, if you have “flu-like” symptoms such as fever and body aches, it could be the flu or a viral illness such as COVID-19, she said. A sore throat is one of her symptoms of illness or allergies. more It is common in people with infections such as strep throat or viruses. If you have asthma, wheezing can also be a sign of illness or allergies.

“If you’ve had recent contact with someone who is sick, you should suspect an infection rather than an allergy,” she said, adding that allergies are not contagious.

About Autumn Seasonal Allergies

The treatment is very effective, says Lomas, and once you suspect or identify a fall trigger as the cause of your symptoms, you may be able to handle this with over-the-counter remedies. If so, consider seeing an allergist who can offer more treatment and testing to identify your specific triggers.

Immunotherapy may be provided to reduce sensitization to allergens over time by controlling the dose as an injection or tablet under the tongue.