Fall is just around the corner, which means that you’ll need to get ready for any seasonal ailments and illnesses during the fall in order to stay healthy during the season! Just like any other time of year, the fall has it’s own set of unique healthcare challenges for patients.
Here are just a handful of seasonal illnesses to prepare for as the fall seasons comes into full swing! Additionally, you can always visit a nearby Instant Urgent Care location to treat any general and seasonal illnesses.
Influenza and the Common Cold
The flu season and common cold are more abundant during the fall as the virus spreads more quickly to patients than normally. This is the result of more individuals staying indoors during times of the year where the flu can spread quickly from patient to patient. During the fall, it helps to get an updated flu shot before the peak of flu season in order to fight of the most common symptoms.
Flu shots are updated annually in order to combat the latest strain of influenza. This is because the virus changes and adapts each year to infect more people. A new flu vaccine is manufactured yearly so patients always have a means of protecting themselves against the virus. Additionally, make sure you keep up with your personal hygiene (hand-washing, cleaning surfaces, etc.) and avoid contact with sick individuals to keep the flu at bay.
Seasonal Allergies are still a health risk during the fall
Many seasonal allergies including hay fever, dander allergies, pollen, and similar risks are more abundant in the fall, which means patients will need to ensure they are protected throughout the year.
Seasonal allergy triggers in the fall vary from patient to patient and requires a diagnosis from the doctor in order to determine which trigger affects you. But the symptoms for seasonal allergy triggers are usually the same such as respiratory irritation and congestion. The most common allergy symptoms include:
- Runny nose
- Watery eyes
- Sneezing and coughing
- Itchy eyes and and puffiness under the eye
- Headache and fever
Unlike the flu, seasonal fall allergies are the result of specific irritants and not a virus. However, the symptoms are very similar and are likely to be confused with one another. Make sure you speak with a trusted medical provider if you’re not sure about next steps.
Seasonal illnesses sometimes strike even with the best precautions in place. When that happens, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention for your symptoms.