As the weather shifts in October and November, many people experience an increase in cough, sore throat, sneezing, and runny nose. This trend is especially noticeable in regions like Delhi-NCR where air quality tends to worsen during this time. The question arises: is the cough caused by seasonal changes, allergies, infections, or pollution?
Understanding Allergy-Related Cough
Dr. Ajit Kumar from the Medicine Department at Rajiv Gandhi Hospital explains that coughs during these months can stem from multiple sources. When the weather changes, dust, soil particles, and other allergens in the air can trigger coughing. Symptoms typically include frequent sneezing, nasal itching, runny nose, and throat irritation. Allergy-related coughs are usually dry and tend to worsen during the night or early in the morning. Such patterns may also indicate asthma.
Viral infections play a significant role in causing coughs at this time of year. October and November often bring colds and other viral illnesses, which cause coughing accompanied by fever, sore throat, nasal congestion, body aches, and fatigue. Post-infection coughs can linger for several weeks. If coughing persists longer than expected, consulting a doctor is advised.
How Pollution Contributes to Cough
Rising pollution levels in October and November expose people to fine particles like PM 2.5 and PM 10. These microscopic pollutants enter the respiratory tract and irritate the throat and airways, leading to dry cough, throat soreness, and difficulty breathing. Individuals with asthma or lung conditions are particularly vulnerable, though otherwise healthy individuals can be affected as well.
To prevent cough during this season, certain precautions are essential. It is advisable to avoid going outdoors when pollution is high and wear a well-fitting N95 mask if venturing outside is necessary. Drinking plenty of water and avoiding smoking are also important. Those with allergies or asthma should follow their doctor’s prescribed treatments carefully.
Medical experts recommend immediate medical attention if cough is accompanied by breathing difficulties, chest pain, or coughing up blood. A cough lasting more than three weeks or increasing in severity also warrants professional consultation. Determining the precise cause of a cough based solely on symptoms can be difficult, so expert evaluation is often necessary.
Manish Raiswal, the team lead for Lifestyle at TV9 Digital, highlights that recognizing the exact cause of a cough helps ensure effective treatment. Manish has had a notable career in journalism across various media outlets and continues to cover health, lifestyle, social issues, and other important topics.
In summary, coughs that increase during November may be allergic reactions, viral infections, or a result of pollution. Understanding and identifying the root cause can guide proper management and relief.
