Autumn Coughs and Colds: What You Need to Know

It’s likely you know someone who’s coughing and sneezing around you—hopefully not directly in your face, though! Autumn is here, and with it comes a rise in coughs and colds.

But why does this happen now? How do you tell if it’s just a simple cold, or something more serious? And what can you do to avoid feeling awful? Medical doctor Dr. Oscar Duke, known from BBC’s Morning Live, offers some useful insights.

Does Cold Weather Cause Colds?

The connection between cold weather and our immune systems isn’t completely clear. But as the days get shorter, we tend to flock to warm, cozy indoor spots—which, unfortunately, are ideal breeding grounds for viruses. Plus, with kids back in school after summer, they can easily pick up and bring home germs, making places like schools feel like germ hubs.

Freshers at university are also a concern; when young adults gather, they exchange more than just small talk! Late nights and partying can also weaken immune defenses.

Cold, Flu, or COVID?

The symptoms of colds, flu, and even COVID often overlap, making it tricky to figure out what you’ve caught. However, there are some clues. A cold usually creeps up gradually, affecting your nose and throat. You might feel a tickle in your throat or pressure in your ears. Generally, these symptoms don’t derail your daily life too much.

On the flip side, flu tends to hit hard with body aches, fever, and fatigue. You might not feel like you need to stay in bed, but there’s a good chance you’ll want to. And then there’s COVID, which has added confusion with similar symptoms. A significant tell for COVID can be a sudden loss of smell or taste, particularly with new variants making waves this winter. You might also experience a sharp sore throat or even diarrhea.

If you’re feeling unwell, the best advice is to stay home, rest, and recover. But, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice if you experience breathlessness or if symptoms linger beyond three weeks, especially if you have existing health issues.

Can I Help Myself Get Better?

Your body is pretty good at fighting off infections, but a little help never hurts. Here are a few recommendations:

• Paracetamol: If you’re able to take it, this can help reduce fever and alleviate pain. Just be cautious—many cold medications contain paracetamol, so double-check your intake.

• Vitamin C: While often marketed as a cold prevention method, the evidence isn’t strongly in its favor. A balanced diet should be your primary focus unless you’re deficient.

• Vitamin D: As sunlight tends to dwindle in the UK during colder months, a vitamin D top-up is usually recommended by health professionals.

• Decongestant Spray: These offer quick relief but be careful—frequent use can lead to rebound congestion. It’s best to limit use to four or five days.

• Chicken Soup: While it may not fight off viruses directly, its warmth can help soothe your throat and keep you hydrated, which is essential during sickness.

Getting Vaccinated

If you’re offered it, taking the annual flu jab is essential. The timing for eligibility varies based on individual risk factors. Children who were two or three on August 31 can participate, and older kids will receive theirs through schools. You can find more info and book appointments on the NHS website or through your doctor.