As Wisconsin prepares for lower temperatures and sweater weather, it’s important to remember fall allergies and cold and flu season are on their way.
For many people across the Midwest, they arrive side by side, and their symptoms can overlap in confusing ways. Emplify Health can help community members tell the difference, so they know when to manage symptoms at home and when it’s time to seek expert medical care.
Fall allergies are triggered by airborne allergens such as ragweed pollen, mold spores and dust mites, while colds and influenza (the flu) are caused by viruses. All three can leave people reaching for the tissue box, and understanding what’s behind the symptoms is the first step toward feeling better.
Colds, flu and allergies share a few common symptoms — sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose and fatigue among them — but there are important differences that can help sufferers tell them apart.
Cold and flu symptoms may include a runny or stuffy nose; cough (dry and persistent with flu); sneezing; sore throat; body aches or muscle soreness; fever or chills (flu only); and sometimes vomiting or diarrhea, especially in children (flu only).
Fall allergy symptoms are tied to allergen exposure and often include itchy, watery eyes; sneezing; clear, runny nasal discharge and nasal congestion; itchy nose or throat; and symptoms that linger for weeks or as long as the allergen is present
“The biggest clue is often how the symptoms behave,” said Dr. Jared Darveaux. “Allergens typically don’t cause fever or body aches, and they tend to stick around as long as the allergen is in the air. The flu, on the other hand, usually hits suddenly and can bring fever, chills and body aches. Knowing that difference helps you be more confident in choosing the right care instead of reaching for the wrong treatment.”
Many cold, flu and allergy symptoms can be managed at home with over-the-counter medications and rest. Dr. Michael Hodulik said that knowing when to seek further care is important.
“Considering the severity of the symptoms can help you decide when to seek care,” said Hodulik. “If your symptoms persist longer than the typical duration, or you develop trouble breathing or swallowing, chest pain, a persistent cough or a fever that stays above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s time to take further action. Since medical symptoms don’t like to stick to business hours, Emplify Health ensures community members have access to the right care at the right time.”
Emplify Health additionally recommends all community members help reduce the spread and severity of flu symptoms by getting a flu shot. Flu shots are available with one’s primary care provider.
