Not Covid or the flu: 3 things that cause cold-like symptoms

During the winter months, symptoms like runny nose, sneezing, and fatigue are often mistaken for the flu or COVID-19. Experts say these symptoms can often be caused by something else.

“THE REASONS MAY BE DIFFERENT”

George Sandhu, deputy director of Well Pharmacy in England, said cold-like symptoms are often confused with allergies, especially in the autumn months.

According to Sandhu, the longer seasons and warmer temperatures are also making allergy season much longer than expected:

"Warmer weather causes plants to produce pollen for longer. Furthermore, increased carbon dioxide levels act like a fertilizer for plants, increasing pollen production."

This causes pollen counts to be much higher than in previous years and allergic symptoms to extend into winter.

MOLD, POLLEN AND DUST MITES

Experts say there are three main reasons why symptoms increase in the fall:

1- Wild Weed Pollen: Plants such as ambrosia, wormwood, plantain, nettle, dock, goosefoot and sorrel are among the species that spread the most pollen in the autumn.

2- Mold Spores: Humid autumn air creates the perfect environment for mold spores to multiply. Mold spreads rapidly in rotting leaves, compost, soil, and damp areas of the home, especially bathrooms and kitchens.

3- House Dust Mites: Dust mites, which live in bedding, carpets, soft toys and fabrics, trigger symptoms in the autumn and winter months when more time is spent indoors.

The period when these three allergens are active simultaneously represents a “high-risk window” for people with allergies, according to Sandhu.

HOW TO RELIEVE THE SYMPTOMS

Pharmacist Sandhu emphasizes the importance of taking the right treatment and prevention against these allergic symptoms: - Antihistamines: Reduce sneezing, runny nose, and itching. - Nasal Sprays: Corticosteroid sprays containing fluticasone or mometasone reduce inflammation and congestion. - Nasal Decongestants: Provide short-term relief, but long-term use is not recommended. - Saline Sprays: Reduce the effects of allergens by clearing the nasal passages. - Eye Drops: Soothe itchy, watery eyes.

ALLERGIC REACTIONS MAY BE THE REASON

According to experts, if your runny nose and fatigue persist despite a negative COVID or flu test result, it could be due to an allergic reaction. Mold, pollen, and dust mites, which increase particularly in the fall, continue to trigger the immune system throughout the season.