Summer Cold, Asthma, Or Other?

Coughing is a common symptom that can occur due to different reasons during the summer months. It can be caused by a viral infection, allergies, or even underlying respiratory conditions such as asthma.

If your cough is accompanied by other symptoms such as a runny or congested nose, sore throat, or fever, it is more likely to be a common cold. On the other hand, if the cough is persistent, worsens at night or with physical activity, and is accompanied by wheezing or shortness of breath, there is a possibility of it being related to asthma. Seeking medical advice from a healthcare professional can help determine the cause and appropriate treatment for your specific case.

Sneezing and a runny nose are often associated with allergies, commonly known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis. These symptoms can be triggered by exposure to outdoor allergens such as pollen, grass, or mold spores. Allergies can mimic cold symptoms, but they tend to persist for a longer duration and may not be accompanied by a fever.

If you notice that your symptoms occur at specific times or in specific settings, such as when you are outdoors or exposed to certain allergens, it is more likely to be allergies rather than a common cold. NasonCare can help you identify allergies and start the appropriate treatment.

Triggers and environmental factors play a significant role in differentiating between a cold, allergies, asthma or other related illnesses. Colds are commonly caused by viral infections, which are easily transmitted between individuals through close contact or exposure to respiratory droplets.

Asthma symptoms, on the other hand, can be triggered by a variety of factors such as allergens (pollen, dust mites, pet dander), environmental irritants (smoke, air pollution), exercise, stress, or changes in weather conditions. These triggers can be specific to individuals and may not necessarily be contagious like a cold.

Another way to differentiate between cold and asthma symptoms is by observing the response to medications. Colds are typically self-limiting, and over-the-counter medications may be used to alleviate symptoms temporarily. These medications include decongestants, cough suppressants, and pain relievers. However, they do not directly treat the underlying viral infection causing the cold.

Asthma, on the other hand, is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management with medications such as bronchodilators (to relax the airway muscles) and inhaled corticosteroids (to reduce inflammation in the airways).