Knowing the Differences Between Flu-Like Symptoms and Allergies

If you're in bed all day with flu-like symptoms, allergies could
be the actual root cause. Often, people mistake simple allergy
signs for more severe conditions like a cold or the flu.

To learn more about allergies and differentiating between an
illness and a possible allergic reaction, keep reading.

All Allergies Aren't Created Equal

Just because someone is having an allergic reaction doesn't mean
they'll automatically exhibit a runny nose and itchy eyes. In
fact, many allergies are symptomatic as stomach pains, aches, a
rash or other flu-like indicators. Allergies are simply a range
of reactions to different antigens, and those reactions can vary
depending on the individual and the allergy itself.

Some allergic reactions are disguised as a low-grade fever,
aches, pains and chills - all signs associated with the flu.

Understanding the Difference

Typically, a flu won't be either too short or long in duration.
If your aches, pains and flu-like symptoms seem to continue for
several weeks or over the course of an allergen "season," it's a
likely indicator that you're reacting to a particular pollen or
airborne particle. When flu symptoms continue indefinitely
without relenting, you may have a bigger problem - like mold in
your living environment.

If you suspect that mold or asbestos may be causing your chronic
flu-like signs, you should consult with your doctor and look
into having your home thoroughly inspected.

Be Aware of the Seasons

When it's mid-February and you live in North Dakota, you're not
likely to be suffering from allergies, unless you're
experiencing a reaction to animals or other allergens. Typically
though, pollen allergy season occurs during the warm months.

However, not all allergic reactions are caused by pollen. As
mentioned earlier, some may be caused by mold in the living or
working environment, some may be a result of airborne particles
and pollution and others may even be caused by diet.

Get a Diagnosis

Talk to your doctor, particularly if your flu-like symptoms
persist for a lengthy period of time. You may be advised to see
an allergist to be tested for various allergies. Your physician
might also prescribe various flu or allergy treatments to test
how effective they are.

Another professional you may want to speak to is a naturopath -
this individual will test you for a variety of food and
environment-based allergens. He or she can also help you improve
your diet as a way of boosting your immune system and improving
your ability to help you fight off viruses like the flu.

Get a Flu Shot

If you're living with flu-like signs, allergies may be the root
cause. But, you should still protect yourself against the flu.
For future years, protect your body against the flu by arming it
with an up-to-date flu vaccination.

A number of people avoid a flu shot over fears of either
ineffectiveness or actually catching the flu from the vaccine.
This, unfortunately, does happen in a small percentage of cases.
However, all-in-all almost anyone will benefit.

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