What are the Most Common Fall Illnesses?

Autumn brings its own challenges to our health. From shorter, colder days to increased spread of illness, it’s vital to take active care of our health and be educated about the illnesses that mark the season. Understanding these potential health challenges and how to prevent them is crucial for maintaining well-being during the fall. Here are the most common fall illnesses.

The Most Common Fall Illnesses

The Flu

The flu is the most common and notorious seasonal illness. Symptoms of the flu include fever, body aches, fatigue, and respiratory issues. The flu can disrupt everyday life significantly. The virus spreads easily, especially in crowded places like schools and workplaces. As of September 2024, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates there have been 35 million illnesses, 400,000 hospitalizations, and 25,000 deaths from flu so far this season. That is why it is suggested to get the yearly flu vaccination, which can increase your body’s ability to fight the flu and decrease the risk of the worst symptoms.

Treatment for the flu includes:

• Rest
• Drinking plenty of water
• Over-the-counter medicine such as ibuprofen
• Wearing face masks in public
• Washing your hands often

If your flu symptoms don’t get better and you have a fever lasting three days or more, you should contact your healthcare provider.

Colds

While generally milder than the flu, the common cold is prevalent during the fall. Most cases occur between September and May, and adults get an average of one or two colds annually. Some estimates say there are 1 billion colds annually in the U.S.

Symptoms include a runny nose, sore throat, and cough. Like the flu, the common cold is highly contagious and can be spread through droplets in the air or by touching contaminated surfaces. Treating the common cold is similar to treating the flu. Plenty of rest, drinking water, ibuprofen, and cough drops can help lessen symptoms and help you recover.

Seasonal Allergies

It may surprise some people that allergies don’t just occur in the spring. Common fall allergens include:

• Ragweed
• Pollen
• Dust
• Mold

Seasonal allergies can cause sneezing, itchy eyes, and congestion. Allergy medications and nasal sprays can help manage symptoms.

To help ease the transition to the fall, clean your heating ducts before use, use a HEPA filter to help filter out potential allergens, use a humidifier, and wear a mask when you rake your leaves to avoid breathing in allergens.

Acute Ear Infections

Fall allergens can also lead to an increase in ear infections. Symptoms of ear infections include muffled hearing, pain inside the ear, drainage, and nausea. Antibiotics and warm compresses can help treat ear infections. Speak with your healthcare provider to get the right treatment for you if you are experiencing symptoms of ear infections.

Norovirus

Norovirus, sometimes referred to as the stomach flu, is the leading cause of vomiting and diarrhea. Like influenza, norovirus increases in the fall. The most common symptoms of norovirus include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, stomach pain, and fever. Most people recover in 1-3 days from the illness. However, it is important to watch for signs of dehydration.

Symptoms of dehydration that can make norovirus worse include:

• Thirst
• Dry or sticky mouth
• Dark yellow pee
• Dry, cool skin
• Headache
• Muscle cramps
• Dry cough
• Loss of appetite or sugar cravings
• Chills
• Fainting
• Sleepiness

Drink plenty of fluids to keep your body hydrated.

Arthritis

Arthritis affects people year-round. However, some people report having worse pain or symptoms of their arthritis in the colder months, starting in autumn. Colder weather may increase joint fluid, making your joints stiffer. Speak with your healthcare provider about your arthritis pain and find the right treatment when the weather gets colder.

Asthma

For those with asthma, cold and damp air can increase the risk of asthma attacks. If you do have an asthma attack, stay calm. Use your prescribed medication and seek medical treatment if your symptoms persist.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

With shorter days and colder weather, many U.S. adults can feel depression. Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, affects nearly 5% of U.S. adults, and it can last for 40% of the year. Symptoms of seasonal affective disorder include:

• Feeling sad or having a depressed mood
• Loss of interest in your activities or hobbies
• Changes in appetite
• Change in sleep; usually sleeping too much
• Loss of energy or increased fatigue
• Difficulty thinking, concentrating, or making decisions.
• Thoughts of death or suicide.

Treatment for SAD varies from person to person, but antidepressants, light therapy, and talk therapy can be effective in managing seasonal depression.

How to Prevent Common Fall Illnesses

Vaccination

The best defense against the flu is getting vaccinated annually. Flu shots are widely available and are recommended for everyone, particularly those in high-risk groups.

Hygiene Practices

Frequent handwashing, using hand sanitizers, and avoiding touching your face can help prevent the spread of both colds and the flu.

Lifestyle Adjustments

Incorporate a diet rich in fruits and vegetables to boost your immune system. Staying hydrated and getting adequate sleep also play vital roles in prevention. While it may be tough to get outside because of the cold, find indoor activities that you can do with friends and family to maintain socialization over the season.

Stay Active

Regular exercise helps keep your immune system strong. Even as the weather cools, find indoor activities or dress appropriately for outdoor exercises.

Balanced Diet

Focus on consuming balanced meals that provide necessary nutrients. Seasonal produce like apples, pumpkins, and sweet potatoes are delicious and nutritious.

Mindful Relaxation

Autumn is a perfect time to enjoy relaxation activities such as reading or meditative practices, which can help reduce stress levels.

Related: Give Your Health a Boost This Fall

Fall Healthcare in Antelope Valley

The fall is a time of change. So it’s best to be prepared for the changes ahead and have the support you need. At Antelope Valley Medical Center, we are here for you, whether you are experiencing flu or cold symptoms or increased asthma or depression. As a full-acute hospital, our specialists can help you get better when fall illnesses hit

Visit us online to learn more about our services at https://www.avmc.org/services/.