Flu and sneezing: what should you know?

Influenza often brings a sudden feverish feeling, chills, headache, marked tiredness, muscle aches and a dry cough. Sneezing can happen, although repeated sneezing, an itchy nose, watery eyes or symptoms that follow dust, pollen or animals may fit allergic rhinitis more closely. A blocked or runny nose with a milder, gradual illness is often seen with a common cold. House dust mite allergy and pet allergy are possible triggers when symptoms recur indoors or around a particular animal.

Rest, drink fluids regularly and use tissues when sneezing. Cover coughs and sneezes, wash your hands, and limit close contact while you feel unwell. A pharmacist or clinician can help you choose symptom relief that fits your age, pregnancy status and other medicines. Allergy Medication may help when an allergy pattern is clear, while antibiotics do not treat influenza or an uncomplicated cold. Avoid smoking and keep the room comfortably ventilated.

Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, blue or grey lips, new confusion, fainting, severe weakness, or chest pain. Arrange medical advice if fever or breathing symptoms are worsening, you cannot keep fluids down, or you have a long-term lung condition, a weakened immune system, pregnancy, or another reason an infection may be higher risk. A clinician can assess whether testing or early treatment is appropriate.

Could this pattern fit influenza, a common cold or an allergy? Which warning signs should I monitor? Are my current medicines suitable, and should I take steps to reduce spread at home?