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6 Spring Season Illnesses You Should Be Aware Of

Dr. Uma M

4 Min Read

The spring season brings with itself all the wonderful things nature has to offer– the blooming flowers, new leaves, and pleasant weather. But it’s not always sunshine and roses. Despite being the best weather of all, it also brings diseases with itself. Check out the most common spring illnesses and ways to prevent them.

Allergies

Allergies are one of the very common spring conditions. During this season plants and trees are in the blossoming phase. The pollens shed by the greens can travel via air and reach our eyes and even lungs through our noses. Sneezing, rashes, itchy eyes, runny or blocked nose, chest tightness or cough are common symptoms of allergies. Also, some plants promote mold growth and some are known to cause allergies.

spring illnesses allergies mfine

What you can do

Cover your face when you go out
Limit outdoor activities
Bathe before going to bed (pollen can travel via clothes and skin)
If symptoms get worse, consult a doctor

Common cold

The common cold is caused by rhinovirus infections. Rhinoviruses are responsible for infections of sinuses, ear, and throat. The symptoms of the common cold are nasal irritation, sore throat, headache, ear pressure, loss of appetite and cough. Rhinoviruses are most active during the spring season and may cause 10-40% of the colds. Keep in mind that the common cold is easily transmissible.

spring illnesses common cold mfine

What you can do

Wash hands frequently
Avoid touching your face
Steer clear from people who have a cold

Eczema

Eczema is a condition wherein the skin becomes red, itchy and inflamed. It is often caused by coming in contact with allergens (pollens) that irritate the skin. The signs of eczema are skin erupting in flares and intense itching. What can you do to stop the symptoms? There’s no one solution to this condition. A doctor will prescribe a topical treatment that will help ease the inflammation.

spring illnesses eczema mfine

What you can do

Apply cool compress
Keep your skin moisturized
Wear loose-fitting clothes, preferably cotton

Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis is another common spring season illness. It is the inflammation of the stomach and the small intestine. Fever, nausea, fatigue, headache, and cramping are common symptoms of this viral condition. Gastroenteritis is contagious and can spread via close contact with an infected person. The treatment prescribed by the doctor can ease the symptoms.

spring illnesses gastroenteritis

What you can do

Maintain good personal hygiene
Eat home-cooked food only
Wash hands frequently
If water isn’t available, use sanitizers and wet wipes

Asthma

Asthma is one of the common spring illnesses. It is a chronic condition wherein the airways of lungs become narrow and inflamed. During springtime, when pollens and mold spores are inhaled, it triggers an asthma attack consisting of symptoms like shortness of breath, wheezing and chest tightening.

spring illness - Asthma mfine

What you can do

Limit your outdoor exposure
Always carry your inhaler
Talk to your doctor about medications

Conjunctivitis

Swelling in the outer lining of the eyes is called conjunctivitis. It occurs in people that have a strong family history of allergies including conditions like eczema, asthma and allergic rhinitis. Conjunctivitis is quite common in spring season since allergens come in contact with the eyes and cause an allergic reaction.

spring illness-conjunctivitis mfine

What you can do

Stay indoors when the pollen count is high outside
Refrain from rubbing the eyes
Avoid wearing contact lenses
Apply a cold compress to soothe the eyes

If you are travelling during this season, keep the following tips in mind

Consume packaged water
Use packaged water to brush your teeth too
Avoid raw food such as peeled fruits & vegetables
Avoid eating undercooked foods like meat
Wear a mask when outdoors
Stay away from crowded places

If your symptoms get worse, it is advisable to consult a doctor immediately. Never give or take medicines without consulting the physician. Download the MFine app and consult the best doctors near you.