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.
So, to gain more understanding about the differences between allergic reactions and a typical flu, read on.
All Allergies Aren't Created Equal
Allergies won't always manifest themselves as a case of the sniffles and red, itchy eyes. Some may present themselves as an upset stomach, a rash or even a range of flu-like symptoms. Allergies are, essentially, just a series of reactions to antigens like pollen, mold or anything in your environment that your body is sensitive to.
For example, many allergic reactions will exhibit as a fever, headache, chills and general body pains. These are all common flu indicators.
Understanding the Difference
The most obvious indicator that you may be suffering from allergies and not the flu is if your noticeable evidences are consistent and last throughout the allergy or pollen season. Another possible indicator occurs when your symptoms are sustained over a long period of time. Where this is the case, then environmental factors in your home or work space could be a contributing factor.
Asbestos and mold can both cause serious and ongoing allergic reactions that are very similar to the flu. If you suspect mold problems, you should have your home inspected and talk to your doctor.
Tis the Season
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.
That said, some allergies can be caused by allergens like pet dander, airborne particles, pollution, mold, dust and other aggravating factors. Another possibility is diet or reactions to medication.
Get a Diagnosis
Your doctor may diagnose with you the flu or prescribe you with a short course of allergy drugs to test their efficacy. Another method is to test for specific allergies to see if they are actually the root cause of the flu-like experience.
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.
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