Every autumn, it’s the same old story. The
leaves change colors, the temperature drops—and you get a stuffy
nose and a massive case of the sneezes.
Cold, flu , and allergies are common in
the fall . Telling them apart is tough. But doing so can
help you feel better faster.
The Common Cold: Many Causes
Together, Americans suffer 1 billion colds
each year. Most strike between late August and early April.
That’s when people spend time in school and indoors, close to
others who may be infected. You might be the latest victim if
you have:
• A stuffy, runny nose
• Sneezing
• A sore throat
• A hacking cough
Cold symptoms can be caused by one of more
than 200 different viruses—that’s part of why there is no cure.
However, many treatments are available.
Try gargling with warm saltwater to relieve a
sore throat. An antihistamine can help a runny nose, while a
decongestant can help clear a stuffy one. For your cough, ask
your pharmacist to help you choose an over-the-counter
antitrussive medication. Be sure to consult your doctor before
giving any cold medications to children. Call your doctor if
your symptoms last more than two weeks or you have severe pain
in your sinuses, the areas behind your nose and eyes. You may
have a sinus or ear infection requiring antibiotics.
The Flu: One Virus, Many Symptoms
The influenza virus spreads when an infected
person coughs or sneezes. Signs of the flu include:
• Fatigue and weakness
• High fever
• Severe aches and pains
• Headache
• Cough
Beat the flu with lots of rest, plenty of
fluids, and pain relievers to soothe body aches. Get medical
help if you are 65 or older, have a chronic medical condition,
or are pregnant. Antiviral drugs can prevent pneumonia and other
flu complications. Getting a flu shot in October or
November can help you stop the flu before it starts.
Anyone older than 6 months can get vaccinated, but it’s
especially recommended for those who are 50 and older, younger
than 19, pregnant, or living with a chronic disease or in a
nursing home.
Allergies: Something in the Air
Fall allergies are usually a bad reaction to
pollen from the ragweed plant. This powdery substance hangs in
the air from late August until the first frost. It can cause:
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Stuffy, runny nose
• Cough
• Sneezing
• Sleep problems
Reduce your exposure by showering after going
outside and keeping home and car windows closed. Medications,
including over-the-counter antihistamines and prescription nasal
steroids, also can help. If drugs don’t work, your allergies
interfere with your daily life, or you have another condition
such as asthma, call your doctor. He or she might recommend a
treatment like allergy shots. These are given before allergy
season begins to get your body used to ragweed.
