Pulmonologist flags persistent cough, wheezing and fever as symptoms often mistaken for seasonal allergies

India, Oct. 29 -- Pulmonologist Dr Amit Kumar Mandal of Paras Health, Panchkula, has warned that symptoms often dismissed as seasonal allergies during the winter months may require medical attention, citing worsening air quality across much of North India between October and February. In comments to HT Lifestyle, he said the distinction between allergy and the respiratory system reacting to polluted air can determine whether a symptom is a passing nuisance or an early warning.

Pollution and allergy-like symptoms

Dr Amit Kumar Mandal said fine particulate matter (PM2.5) can travel deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, inflaming airways and producing sneezing, watery eyes and throat irritation that resemble allergic rhinitis.

He a...