7 KEY DIFFERENCES BETWEEN FLU AND ALLERGIES

7 KEY DIFFERENCES BETWEEN FLU AND ALLERGIES

Flu and allergies share the same symptoms.

Flu and allergies both cause coughing, sneezing, and runny noses, making them difficult to distinguish. Causes, duration, and severity vary. For the flu and allergies, different treatments are needed. Antiviral drugs, rest, and fluids treat the flu, but antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, or allergy shots treat allergies, which are caused by the immune system’s overreaction to allergens.

Flu and allergies can cause breathing problems or anaphylaxis. Thus, diagnosing symptoms correctly is essential for proper treatment and avoiding complications.

1. Causes

The virus that causes the flu, also known as influenza, targets the respiratory system. All ages can contract the influenza virus, but it can be especially dangerous for some groups, including young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with certain medical conditions. Since influenza viruses are ever-evolving, a fresh vaccine is created every year to protect against the most prevalent strains that are anticipated to spread during a particular flu season. 

The body’s immune system overreacts to an allergen it perceives as a threat, which results in allergies. Pollen, mould spores, dust mites, animal dander, and some foods are just a few of the many substances that can cause allergies. Immune system of a person with allergies produces immunoglobulin E (IgE), an antibody that causes the release of chemicals like histamine into the bloodstream when the person comes into contact with an allergen. This results in inflammation and a number of symptoms, including itchy eyes, runny noses, and sneezing. 

Allergies can significantly affect a person’s quality of life even though they are not caused by a virus like the flu. Allergies can be year-round or seasonal, and they can cause asthma attacks in people who already have the condition. Consequently, it’s crucial for those who have allergies to collaborate with their healthcare provider to create a unique management strategy that may include avoiding allergens, taking medications as directed, and, if necessary, receiving immunotherapy (such as allergy shots).

2. Onset and Duration

Flu and allergy symptoms may start and last for different amounts of time. Flu symptoms frequently appear suddenly, and many people say they feel as though a truck just hit them. A fever, chills, cough, sore throat, body aches, fatigue, and occasionally gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and vomiting are among the symptoms that can be present. When the flu virus first enters the body, symptoms usually appear one to four days later and can last for a week or more. 

On the other hand, allergy symptoms may not manifest as quickly as flu symptoms. They might develop gradually and persist for a longer time. Sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itching in the nose and throat, itchy and watery eyes, and occasionally a cough are just a few allergy symptoms. The severity of allergy symptoms can vary depending on the allergen exposure and the person’s sensitivity to it. Unlike flu symptoms, allergy symptoms are not accompanied by a fever. If not treated properly, allergy symptoms can last for several weeks or even months. 

3. Symptoms

The ability to distinguish between the flu and allergies depends heavily on their symptoms. 

The flu is typically characterised by a sudden onset of symptoms that can be severe and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. Flu symptoms frequently include high fever, which typically ranges from 100 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. The flu can occasionally cause gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea in affected individuals. 

In contrast, allergy symptoms typically affect the respiratory system and include sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, watery and itchy eyes, and an itchy nose or throat. Although allergy symptoms may be less severe than flu symptoms, if they are not treated properly, they can persist and become chronic. Symptoms of an allergy that affect the skin include hives, eczema, and rash. Although allergies typically do not result in fever, some people with severe allergies may experience anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that can result in an abrupt drop in blood pressure, difficulty breathing, and other potentially fatal symptoms..

FLU AND ALLERGIES

4. Severity

Depending on the individual, flu symptoms can range from mild to severe. Particularly in those with compromised immune systems, young children, and older adults, flu symptoms can occasionally result in complications like pneumonia, bronchitis, or sinus infections. These issues can become serious and necessitate hospitalisation and other forms of medical care. In particular, those who have experienced anaphylaxis or severe allergic reactions may experience severe symptoms from allergies. 

Anaphylaxis is a potentially fatal allergic reaction that can result in breathing problems, hives, swelling, and a sharp drop in blood pressure. Epinephrine treatment and immediate medical attention are necessary for anaphylaxis. 

The majority of people who get the flu recover without any complications, despite the fact that flu symptoms can be severe and can cause complications. In a similar vein, while allergies can result in serious symptoms, such as anaphylaxis, the majority of allergy sufferers do not have life-threatening reactions. To ensure the proper treatment and care, it’s crucial to seek medical attention if you experience any severe symptoms of either condition.

5. Contagiousness

The flu is extremely contagious and spreads quickly from person to person. The flu virus is primarily spread through respiratory droplets that are released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. These droplets can then spread disease for several hours if they are inhaled by people or land on surfaces. 

Allergies, on the other hand, are not contagious and cannot be passed from one person to another. The body’s immune system overreacts to an allergen, such as pollen or pet dander, and releases chemicals like histamine that cause symptoms. Allergic reactions happen when an individual comes into contact with an allergen, and the severity of the reaction depends on the individual and the allergen. Allergies are not contagious, but some people may be more sensitive to certain allergens than others. 

For instance, some people may be more sensitive to pollen or dust mites, which can cause allergy symptoms even in small amounts. Exposure to environmental factors like cigarette smoke or pollution can aggravate allergy symptoms, so it’s critical to take precautions to reduce exposure to these triggers.

6. Prevention

Managing both flu and allergies involves prevention. 

Healthcare professionals advise getting an annual flu shot to prevent the flu. The flu shot contains inactivated strains of the influenza virus, which aids in the development of virus immunity in your body. This lessens the possibility of contracting the flu or, in the event that you do, developing severe flu symptoms. Additionally, avoiding close contact with sick people, frequently washing your hands, and covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing can all help stop the spread of the flu virus. 

Avoiding exposure to known allergens and taking allergy medications as directed by your doctor are two ways to prevent allergies. This can involve staying inside during the worst allergy season to avoid exposure to outdoor allergens like pollen, closing windows and doors to keep allergens out of your home, and using air purifiers or filters to reduce allergens in the air. Regular cleaning and vacuuming can help lower allergen levels for indoor allergens like dust mites or pet dander. Antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays are examples of allergy medications that can be used to control allergy symptoms and stop flare-ups. 

7. Treatment

Depending on the cause and severity of the symptoms, the treatment for the flu and allergies varies. 

Antiviral drugs like Tamiflu or Relenza, which can help lessen the severity and duration of flu symptoms, may be used in the treatment of the flu. It is crucial to remember that these drugs function best when taken within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms. Resting and staying hydrated by drinking plenty of liquids can also help with flu symptoms and recovery. 

Antihistamines and nasal corticosteroids are two examples of medications that may be used in the treatment of allergies. Antihistamines function by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical produced by the body in response to allergens. They can help with symptoms like runny nose, itching, and sneezing. Nasal corticosteroids, on the other hand, function by lessening nasal inflammation, which can help with symptoms like congestion and itching. 

Immunotherapy, also referred to as allergy shots, is another successful treatment option for people with severe allergies. In order to desensitise the body to the allergen and lessen symptoms, allergy shots involve receiving injections of progressively higher doses of allergens over time. 

Medication, rest, and fluids may all be used in the treatment of the flu and allergies. To choose the best course of treatment for your unique symptoms and medical background, it is crucial to speak with a healthcare professional.

The flu and allergies may share some symptoms, but they are separate conditions that require different treatments. The flu is caused by a virus, is highly contagious, and can cause serious complications. Allergies, are caused by the immune system overreacting to an allergen and can be managed with medication and avoidance of allergens. It’s better to see your doctor for the correct diagnoses and treatment, so you may improve the quality of your health and life.