The doctor named two causes of a runny nose in the fall

An autumn runny nose can be associated with both a viral infection and an allergy, and these conditions are easily confused. However, there are signs that help to distinguish them. Svetlana Burnatskaya, a general practitioner at JSC "Medicine" (Academician Roitberg Clinic), told Izvestia about this on October 18.

"Allergic rhinitis is usually characterized by repeated sneezing, itchy nose and eyes, watery nasal discharge, and lacrimation. The temperature is unusual for allergies. With acute respiratory viral infections, tickling or sore throat, general malaise, aches, sometimes fever are more common, and nasal discharge may become thicker over time," she explained.

Mold may be one of the possible allergens in autumn. Fungal spores are present outdoors, in soil and plant debris, and their concentration increases with increased humidity. Fallen leaves by themselves are not an allergen for everyone, but decomposing plant remains create conditions for the growth of mold fungi.

For example, mold can become a source of allergens in a room, especially in case of dampness and insufficient ventilation. However, not every autumn runny nose is associated with mold: other allergens and a viral infection may be the cause.

Another guideline is the duration of symptoms. A common viral infection of the upper respiratory tract usually resolves in a few days, although a cough or nasal congestion may persist longer. In allergic rhinitis, the symptoms continue as long as the person is in contact with the allergen. If a runny nose recurs at the same time of the year or occurs after staying in a certain room or outdoors, this may be in favor of allergies.

According to Burnatskaya, it is not always possible to accurately determine the cause of rhinitis based on the symptoms alone. The doctor evaluates the nature of the complaints, their duration, seasonality, and association with possible allergens. If an allergy is suspected, skin allergy tests or a blood test may be required.

First aid also depends on the cause. If an allergy is suspected, it is important to reduce contact with the allergen as much as possible — ventilate and keep the rooms dry in the presence of mold, prevent its spread, wash and change clothes after a walk.

Saline solutions for nasal lavage can be used to relieve symptoms, and antiallergic drugs can be used on the recommendation of a doctor or in accordance with the instructions. For colds, rest, adequate fluid intake, nasal rinsing with saline solutions, and symptomatic treatment, if necessary, remain the mainstay of care. Antibiotics do not help with a common viral infection.

"If a runny nose persists for a long time, recurs regularly, is accompanied by severe congestion, attacks of suffocation or other unusual symptoms, it is worth contacting a doctor. An examination is especially important if the symptoms noticeably worsen sleep and quality of life," Burnatskaya added.

Maxim Maskin, Deputy Chief Physician for Therapy, internist, general practitioner at Olympus Clinic MARS, told Izvestia on October 8 that fallen leaves are not an allergen in themselves, but mold spores actively multiply on wet decomposing leaves, which can cause allergic reactions. According to him, mold allergies are often disguised as colds, but they are characterized by a lack of fever, and people with other allergies, asthma, children, and the elderly are at risk.