Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

When To Take A Break From IVF Treatment After Failed Cycles?

Starting on journey of in vitro fertilization (IVF) is a very personal and emotional process. For most couples, it is a hope—a chance to maybe finally be able to achieve their dream of having a family. But what isn't discussed nearly enough is exactly how physically, emotionally, and financially draining this process can be.

Between countless doctor visits, daily hormone injections, unpredictable outcomes, and the immense pressure to succeed, IVF can start to take a serious toll. It’s not just about the body; it affects the mind, relationships, and overall well-being. This is why taking a break—stepping back to breathe and reset—can be an essential part of the process.

But how will you know when it's time to stop? And perhaps more important, how do you handle the emotional burden of deciding? If you find yourself drained, overwhelmed, or wondering if you should continue, know you are not alone. Here's what you need to know about <span>IVF burnout</span>, why it occurs, and how stopping might actually advance you.

For most couples, having children is a dream come true. When natural conception is no longer possible, in vitro fertilization (IVF) is usually the light at the end of the tunnel. Although the progress in fertility treatments has enabled many couples to conceive, the process is not an easy one. IVF is a time-consuming, costly, and emotionally draining process that demands an unrelenting commitment. The endless cycle of doctor visits, hormone shots, procedures, and waiting can be draining on both partners.

Although promising, IVF is not an assured route to success. Failed cycles, cycles of repeated disappointments, and uncertainty about the process can result in severe emotional distress. Most couples feel feelings of shame, guilt, frustration, and anxiety, so it is vital to know when a break is necessary.

<h2>What is IVF Burnout and Why Does It Happen?</h2>

Dr. Vandana Ramanathan, Fertility Consultant at GarbhaGudi IVF Centre, describes IVF burnout as a condition of mental and physical fatigue resulting from extended treatment. "This fatigue can be caused by repeated failed cycles, long procedures, and uncertainty of results," she adds.

Unlike most other medical treatments, IVF has a strong emotional component. Each cycle costs the couple considerable amounts of financial, physical, and emotional capital, often creating unbearable pressure on their part. Not only is there medical stress involved, but social pressures and a lack of support also add to the experience and lead to burnout.

<h2>Recognizing the Signs of IVF Burnout</h2>

Burnout also appears in different ways to every person, based on their stress-coping mechanisms. The symptoms can be divided into mental and physical symptoms:

<ul><li>Enduring depression and anxiety</li><li>Irregular mood swings and heightened irritability</li><li>Lack of motivation and interest in daily tasks</li><li>Social isolation and withdrawal</li></ul>

<ul><li>Chronic fatigue and exhaustion</li><li>Sleep disturbances, including insomnia</li><li>Gastrointestinal disturbances and changes in appetite</li><li>Headaches and body aches occurring frequently</li><li>Panic attacks and palpitations</li><li>Hypertension and blood sugar fluctuations caused by stress</li></ul>

<h2>When Do You Need to Take a Break?</h2>

It's always hard to admit that you need a break when you've invested so much in the journey. But taking a step back doesn't translate to quitting—it's about taking care of yourself as a whole. Dr. Ramanathan says that taking a break doesn't lower the success rate of IVF procedures. Moreover, it can be helpful. If the patient is not ready physically or psychologically for the next cycle, chances for success may be affected as well. We usually suggest taking a break for several months before resuming," she elaborates.

Some couples realize this on their own, seeing that the process is exhausting them. Others might require their doctor to advise them. Either case, a break can last anywhere from a month to six months, depending on the couple's state of mind. The objective is to restore emotional balance and make sure that both partners are mentally ready for the next step in treatment.

<h2>How to Manage IVF Burnout and Gain Emotional Balance?</h2>

Self-care is one of the most important things about breaking the cycle of IVF burnout. Stress can be controlled by practicing yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises. "The patients need to engage in relaxation activities that allow them to feel in control of their emotions," states Dr. Ramanathan.

IVF processes use high doses of medication, and therefore adequate nutrition is key. A well-balanced diet full of vitamins, minerals, and hydration benefits the body throughout the process and also aids in stress management.

Sleep tends to be interfered with because of stress, but sleep is crucial to well-being. A minimum of six to eight hours of rest will help the body heal.

Physical activity can serve as an excellent stress reliever. Whether it’s walking, yoga, or any preferred form of exercise, staying active for at least an hour a day can help balance hormones and improve mental health.

IVF is not only a physical procedure—it's emotional too. Couples must be open with one another and their physician. Talking about fears, challenges, and expectations can ease emotional burdens. "If couples feel they cannot manage the stress themselves, professional counseling can be very helpful," says Dr. Ramanathan.

Knowing that IVF is a hard process with setbacks is the bottom line. Different people react in different ways to treatment, and outcomes can differ. Acknowledge these unknowns and be realistic about expectations in order not to burn out.

<h2>Why Taking a Break is Not Giving Up?</h2>

Time off from IVF is not failure. Rather, it is a chance to rest, recharge, and come back to the process with renewed vigor. "Patients who take a break often return feeling more optimistic and emotionally prepared," Dr. Ramanathan reports.

If you find it too much, taking a break for a while can be the best option for your physical and mental health. When things are ready, you can go back to the process with a new mind and a better attitude.

<em>Dr. Vandana Ramanathan is a Fertility Consultant at GarbhaGudi IVF Centre, Bengaluru in India</em>

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Starting on journey of in vitro fertilization (IVF) is a very personal and emotional process. For most couples, it is a hope—a chance to maybe finally be able to achieve their dream of having a family. But what isn't discussed nearly enough is exactly how physically, emotionally, and financially draining this process can be.Between countless doctor visits, daily hormone injections, unpredictable outcomes, and the immense pressure to succeed, IVF can start to take a serious toll. It’s not just about the body; it affects the mind, relationships, and overall well-being. This is why taking a break—stepping back to breathe and reset—can be an essential part of the process.But how will you know when it's time to stop? And perhaps more important, how do you handle the emotional burden of deciding? If you find yourself drained, overwhelmed, or wondering if you should continue, know you are not alone. Here's what you need to know about IVF burnout, why it occurs, and how stopping might actually advance you.For most couples, having children is a dream come true. When natural conception is no longer possible, in vitro fertilization (IVF) is usually the light at the end of the tunnel. Although the progress in fertility treatments has enabled many couples to conceive, the process is not an easy one. IVF is a time-consuming, costly, and emotionally draining process that demands an unrelenting commitment. The endless cycle of doctor visits, hormone shots, procedures, and waiting can be draining on both partners.Although promising, IVF is not an assured route to success. Failed cycles, cycles of repeated disappointments, and uncertainty about the process can result in severe emotional distress. Most couples feel feelings of shame, guilt, frustration, and anxiety, so it is vital to know when a break is necessary.What is IVF Burnout and Why Does It Happen?Dr. Vandana Ramanathan, Fertility Consultant at GarbhaGudi IVF Centre, describes IVF burnout as a condition of mental and physical fatigue resulting from extended treatment. "This fatigue can be caused by repeated failed cycles, long procedures, and uncertainty of results," she adds.Unlike most other medical treatments, IVF has a strong emotional component. Each cycle costs the couple considerable amounts of financial, physical, and emotional capital, often creating unbearable pressure on their part. Not only is there medical stress involved, but social pressures and a lack of support also add to the experience and lead to burnout.Recognizing the Signs of IVF BurnoutBurnout also appears in different ways to every person, based on their stress-coping mechanisms. The symptoms can be divided into mental and physical symptoms:Mental Signs:Enduring depression and anxietyIrregular mood swings and heightened irritabilityLack of motivation and interest in daily tasksSocial isolation and withdrawalPhysical Signs:Chronic fatigue and exhaustionSleep disturbances, including insomniaGastrointestinal disturbances and changes in appetiteHeadaches and body aches occurring frequentlyPanic attacks and palpitationsHypertension and blood sugar fluctuations caused by stressWhen Do You Need to Take a Break?It's always hard to admit that you need a break when you've invested so much in the journey. But taking a step back doesn't translate to quitting—it's about taking care of yourself as a whole. Dr. Ramanathan says that taking a break doesn't lower the success rate of IVF procedures. Moreover, it can be helpful. If the patient is not ready physically or psychologically for the next cycle, chances for success may be affected as well. We usually suggest taking a break for several months before resuming," she elaborates.Some couples realize this on their own, seeing that the process is exhausting them. Others might require their doctor to advise them. Either case, a break can last anywhere from a month to six months, depending on the couple's state of mind. The objective is to restore emotional balance and make sure that both partners are mentally ready for the next step in treatment.How to Manage IVF Burnout and Gain Emotional Balance?Prioritizing Self-CareSelf-care is one of the most important things about breaking the cycle of IVF burnout. Stress can be controlled by practicing yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises. "The patients need to engage in relaxation activities that allow them to feel in control of their emotions," states Dr. Ramanathan.Having a Balanced DietIVF processes use high doses of medication, and therefore adequate nutrition is key. A well-balanced diet full of vitamins, minerals, and hydration benefits the body throughout the process and also aids in stress management.Adequate SleepSleep tends to be interfered with because of stress, but sleep is crucial to well-being. A minimum of six to eight hours of rest will help the body heal.Adding ExercisePhysical activity can serve as an excellent stress reliever. Whether it’s walking, yoga, or any preferred form of exercise, staying active for at least an hour a day can help balance hormones and improve mental health.Open CommunicationIVF is not only a physical procedure—it's emotional too. Couples must be open with one another and their physician. Talking about fears, challenges, and expectations can ease emotional burdens. "If couples feel they cannot manage the stress themselves, professional counseling can be very helpful," says Dr. Ramanathan.Setting Realistic ExpectationsKnowing that IVF is a hard process with setbacks is the bottom line. Different people react in different ways to treatment, and outcomes can differ. Acknowledge these unknowns and be realistic about expectations in order not to burn out.Why Taking a Break is Not Giving Up?Time off from IVF is not failure. Rather, it is a chance to rest, recharge, and come back to the process with renewed vigor. "Patients who take a break often return feeling more optimistic and emotionally prepared," Dr. Ramanathan reports.If you find it too much, taking a break for a while can be the best option for your physical and mental health. When things are ready, you can go back to the process with a new mind and a better attitude.Dr. Vandana Ramanathan is a Fertility Consultant at GarbhaGudi IVF Centre, Bengaluru in India

when to take a break from ivf treatment after failed cycles?

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If your idea of a long weekend usually involves binge-watching a drama series, mindless scrolling, and wondering why you are still in pyjamas at 4 pm, you are not alone. But what if you could come out of these three days feeling lighter, calmer, and maybe even more alive, without leaving your home? From Independence Day to Krishna Janmashtami on 16 August, followed by your favourite Sunday, take some time out for yourself and prioritise your wellbeing. This 3-day <span>mindfulness</span> challenge might open doors to great things, because when you destress and relax, you give space to creativity and better imagination. 

Take up this 3-day mindfulness challenge and you do not need a passport; just you, your space, and a few intentional choices.

We live life like we are running late for a bus we never actually catch, juggling to-do lists, work deadlines, and the background hum of anxiety. Dr Narendra K. Shetty, a consultant in mindfulness practices, puts it plainly:

“In our daily life we are running behind distractions and never-ending to-do lists… practising mindfulness helps us to overcome stress and find <span>mental peace</span>.”

Mindfulness, he explains, is “the basic human ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we are doing, and not overly reactive or overwhelmed by what is going on around us.”

And if you are wondering whether it is just another buzzword, science says otherwise. Research links mindfulness to reduced stress, better immunity, sharper brain function, and even healthier eating habits.

Before you check your phone, spend a few moments acknowledging that you woke up today. That simple <span>gratitude</span> shifts your brain chemistry towards <span>positivity</span>.

Nidhi Nahata, lifestyle coach, suggests beginning with “the smallest choices”, a glass of water sipped slowly, feeling it cleanse you from within, or opening your windows to let fresh air remind you of the world’s kindness.

<ul><li>Mindful waking — Sit up in bed, notice how your body feels, and stretch like you mean it.</li><li>Balcony <span rel="noindex">breathing</span> — Inhale deeply for four counts, exhale for six. Let your mind follow your breath.</li><li>Nature gaze — Even if your view is just potted plants, watch them for a few minutes. Nature doesn’t rush — maybe neither should you.</li></ul>

You do not need a gym session; mindful walking around your home counts. Feel your feet connect with the floor, notice your weight shift, and hear the subtle sounds you usually tune out.

When it comes to food, both experts agree: <span>mindful eating</span> is a game changer. Dr Shetty recommends a “colourful platter” because the more variety you see, the more nutrients you get. Nidhi suggests choosing food that is “alive”, fresh fruits, crisp salads, and meals planned ahead so you are nourishing, not neglecting, yourself.

<ul><li>Eat one meal without screens. Chew slowly, taste each bite, and notice textures.</li><li>Take a <span rel="noindex">digital detox</span> for an hour — or, if you are brave, half a day.</li><li>Ground yourself while walking barefoot on a safe surface, noticing each sensation.</li></ul>

<h3>Day 3: Clear the clutter — inside and out</h3>

Your surroundings affect your mental state more than you think. Nidhi suggests tending to your home “as you would to a loved one with care, with presence… clear spaces not just of dust, but of stagnant energy that weighs you down.”

This is also the perfect day to reconnect with people, not just your family and friends, but those who are part of your everyday rhythm. Ask your security guard how his morning was, or thank the delivery person. Listen without rushing. As Nidhi says, “In those stories, you will find a mirror of humanity — raw, real, and unfiltered.”

Dr Shetty’s advice here is simple but powerful: take five minutes every hour to check in with yourself. “Spend it on yourself to have a better life in the future,” he says. That could be stretching, sipping tea in silence, or simply breathing with <span>awareness</span>.

<h3>The magic isn’t in the grand gestures</h3>

Mindfulness is not about sitting cross-legged for hours while incense burns. It is about micro-moments of awareness sprinkled through your day. It is pausing before reacting to an annoying email, feeling the sun on your skin when you hang laundry, or laughing wholeheartedly at a silly joke.

As Nidhi reminds us, “Mindfulness is not a skill to master; it is the way life was always meant to be. Somewhere, in the rush of doing, we forgot how to simply be.”

<ul><li>Morning: Gratitude → Breathwork → Screen-free breakfast</li><li>Afternoon: Mindful movement → Colourful, fresh meal → Digital detox hour</li><li>Evening: Declutter a space → Connect with someone → Gentle stretching before bed</li></ul>

Repeat these patterns in any order. The more you weave them in, the more natural they feel.

<h3>Why this works even after the weekend</h3>

Think of these three days as a soft reset for your nervous system. Dr Shetty sums it up beautifully: “The goal of mindfulness is to wake up to the inner workings of our mental, emotional, and physical processes.” And once you have woken up to that, it is hard to go back to autopilot.

Or, as Nidhi puts it, “Sometimes, the most powerful journey is the one that brings you home.” So this weekend, instead of letting the days blur together in a haze of screens and snacks, try letting them sharpen your senses, calm your mind, and remind you that life is happening right here, right now.

mindfulness

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If your idea of a long weekend usually involves binge-watching a drama series, mindless scrolling, and wondering why you are still in pyjamas at 4 pm, you are not alone. But what if you could come out of these three days feeling lighter, calmer, and maybe even more alive, without leaving your home? From Independence Day to Krishna Janmashtami on 16 August, followed by your favourite Sunday, take some time out for yourself and prioritise your wellbeing. This 3-day mindfulness challenge might open doors to great things, because when you destress and relax, you give space to creativity and better imagination. Take up this 3-day mindfulness challenge and you do not need a passport; just you, your space, and a few intentional choices.Why mindfulness, and why now?We live life like we are running late for a bus we never actually catch, juggling to-do lists, work deadlines, and the background hum of anxiety. Dr Narendra K. Shetty, a consultant in mindfulness practices, puts it plainly:“In our daily life we are running behind distractions and never-ending to-do lists… practising mindfulness helps us to overcome stress and find mental peace.”Mindfulness, he explains, is “the basic human ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we are doing, and not overly reactive or overwhelmed by what is going on around us.”And if you are wondering whether it is just another buzzword, science says otherwise. Research links mindfulness to reduced stress, better immunity, sharper brain function, and even healthier eating habits.Day 1: Wake up, breathe, repeatBefore you check your phone, spend a few moments acknowledging that you woke up today. That simple gratitude shifts your brain chemistry towards positivity.Nidhi Nahata, lifestyle coach, suggests beginning with “the smallest choices”, a glass of water sipped slowly, feeling it cleanse you from within, or opening your windows to let fresh air remind you of the world’s kindness.From there:Mindful waking — Sit up in bed, notice how your body feels, and stretch like you mean it.Balcony breathing — Inhale deeply for four counts, exhale for six. Let your mind follow your breath.Nature gaze — Even if your view is just potted plants, watch them for a few minutes. Nature doesn’t rush — maybe neither should you.Day 2: Move, eat, and live like you mean itYou do not need a gym session; mindful walking around your home counts. Feel your feet connect with the floor, notice your weight shift, and hear the subtle sounds you usually tune out.When it comes to food, both experts agree: mindful eating is a game changer. Dr Shetty recommends a “colourful platter” because the more variety you see, the more nutrients you get. Nidhi suggests choosing food that is “alive”, fresh fruits, crisp salads, and meals planned ahead so you are nourishing, not neglecting, yourself.Try this:Eat one meal without screens. Chew slowly, taste each bite, and notice textures.Take a digital detox for an hour — or, if you are brave, half a day.Ground yourself while walking barefoot on a safe surface, noticing each sensation.Day 3: Clear the clutter — inside and outYour surroundings affect your mental state more than you think. Nidhi suggests tending to your home “as you would to a loved one with care, with presence… clear spaces not just of dust, but of stagnant energy that weighs you down.”This is also the perfect day to reconnect with people, not just your family and friends, but those who are part of your everyday rhythm. Ask your security guard how his morning was, or thank the delivery person. Listen without rushing. As Nidhi says, “In those stories, you will find a mirror of humanity — raw, real, and unfiltered.”Dr Shetty’s advice here is simple but powerful: take five minutes every hour to check in with yourself. “Spend it on yourself to have a better life in the future,” he says. That could be stretching, sipping tea in silence, or simply breathing with awareness.The magic isn’t in the grand gesturesMindfulness is not about sitting cross-legged for hours while incense burns. It is about micro-moments of awareness sprinkled through your day. It is pausing before reacting to an annoying email, feeling the sun on your skin when you hang laundry, or laughing wholeheartedly at a silly joke.As Nidhi reminds us, “Mindfulness is not a skill to master; it is the way life was always meant to be. Somewhere, in the rush of doing, we forgot how to simply be.”Your 3-day cheat sheetMorning: Gratitude → Breathwork → Screen-free breakfastAfternoon: Mindful movement → Colourful, fresh meal → Digital detox hourEvening: Declutter a space → Connect with someone → Gentle stretching before bedRepeat these patterns in any order. The more you weave them in, the more natural they feel.Why this works even after the weekendThink of these three days as a soft reset for your nervous system. Dr Shetty sums it up beautifully: “The goal of mindfulness is to wake up to the inner workings of our mental, emotional, and physical processes.” And once you have woken up to that, it is hard to go back to autopilot.Or, as Nidhi puts it, “Sometimes, the most powerful journey is the one that brings you home.” So this weekend, instead of letting the days blur together in a haze of screens and snacks, try letting them sharpen your senses, calm your mind, and remind you that life is happening right here, right now.

3-day mindfulness challenge: recharge without stepping out this long weekend

Ishita Roy

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Seasonal changes not only welcome a new season, new weather, and new food habits, but it also bring in seasonal diseases, especially respiratory viruses. Though it is a yearly occurrence. Every time when the season changes, respiratory viruses attack you. However, what makes it different this year is the unique symptoms and the mutations that are happening among these viruses. 

<h2>The Common Seasonal Respiratory Viruses</h2>

<h3><span rel="noindex">COVID</span> 19: It is a disease caused by a virus named SARS-CoV-2, and is very contagious.</h3>

<span>COVID-19</span> causes respiratory symptoms that can feel like a cold, flu, or pneumonia. It can also attack other parts of the body, even outside of the lungs and respiratory system, notes the official Government website of Michigan.

<h3>Influenza: It is a contagious respiratory illness, typically in the nose, throat and lungs, caused by the influenza virus.</h3>

It can result in mild to severe illness and sometimes, death.

<h3>Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV): It is a common virus that causes mild, cold-like symptoms, including runny nose, coughing, sneezing, wheezing, and fever. </h3>

These symptoms usually appear in stages and not all at once. In very young infants with RSV, the only symptoms may be irritability, decreased activity, and difficulty breathing.

<h2>What Makes Them Unique In 2025: The Unique Symptoms</h2>

From nuanced changes in patterns of symptoms to news on vaccine immunity and AI-driven virus forecasting, here's a closer look at the latest direction of COVID and its continued influence.

While hospitalizations and COVID-19 deaths have significantly slowed from pandemic highs, the virus is hardly gone. In Australia alone, there were 58,000 cases of COVID so far in 2025, though experts say the real numbers are much greater, given decreasing testing and underreporting.

Sentinel surveillance statistics by FluCan, a network of 14 hospitals, reported 781 hospitalizations due to COVID complication in the first quarter of 2025 alone. Another 289 deaths due to respiratory infections caused by COVID happened in the first two months of the year. These statistics point out that, although COVID seems less formidable now, it is still a critical healthcare issue for some sections of the population.

<strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/covid-2025-unique-symptoms-of-new-variant-and-how-long-infection-now-last-article-151633407" data-type="tilCustomLink">Unique Symptoms Of Covid In 2025 And How Long Infection Now Last</a></strong> 

Furthermore the mutation of virus into various strains like the Stratus or Nimbus, has further introduced a new set of symptoms, for instance: 

<h4>Anosmia is now more variant-specific, so it is a key symptom to monitor for new variants</h4>

<h4>Razor-blade like pain in the throat</h4>

<h4>Sore throat or hoarseness, as experts have also claimed that Stratus can give patients a "hoarse voice"</h4>

<h4>Headaches that can last several days</h4>

<h4>Fatigue that lingers beyond acute phase</h4>

<strong>You May Like To Read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/experts-warn-against-the-unique-symptoms-of-stratus-covid-strain-that-has-infected-a-large-uk-population-can-it-evade-antibodies-article-152455852" data-type="tilCustomLink">Experts Warn Against The Unique Symptoms Of 'Stratus' Covid Strain That Has Infected A Large UK Population; Can It Evade Antibodies?</a></strong>

In most years, flu activity in the U.S. typically follows a predictable pattern, starting in October, peaking between December and February, and fading by April. But the 2024–2025 season has defied that rhythm.

Cases surged past the national baseline in December and then, unexpectedly, peaked again in February, a second wave that blindsided doctors and public health experts.

As of March 2025, the CDC had reported an estimated 37 million influenza infections, 480,000 hospitalizations, and 21,000 deaths. Hospitalizations, in fact, reached their highest levels in 15 years.

One key driver? A mismatch between circulating flu strains and this year’s vaccine. The dominant strains: H1N1 and H3N2, accounted for more than 99% of cases.

H3N2, in particular, is known for mutating quickly and evading immune responses, and only about half of circulating H3N2 samples matched well with vaccine antibodies, according to CDC surveillance data.

<strong>Read More: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/unique-symptoms-of-flu-in-2025-and-how-long-the-infection-lasts-article-152394113" data-type="tilCustomLink">What Makes Flu Season 2025 Different? Unique Symptoms Of Flu In 2025 And How Long The Infection Lasts</a></strong>

<h3><span rel="noindex">Unique Symptoms Of Flu</span>:</h3>

<h4>Sore throat and persistent cough</h4>

<h4>Diarrhea and vomiting (more frequent in children)</h4>

<h4>In some children, neurological symptoms like confusion or seizures</h4>

What makes RSV different from the aforementioned viruses is that here, the cough is mild, while in flu and Covid-19, the cough is dry and persistent. In fact, in the other two cases, the cough can often worsen.

Here, the fatigue too is mild, along with muscle aches, which could be very common or even intense in flu or COVID-19 symptoms. 

There is rarely any loss of taste or smell and no shortness of breath. What makes it different from flu or COVID-19 is the presence of runny nose and sneezing. 

COVID-19 lasts anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. Some people may develop long COVID, a wide range of symptoms that last weeks, months, or years after COVID-19 illness, which is also known as Long Covid.

Influenza, or the flu, typically lasts for about a week for most healthy individuals. However, some symptoms like cough and fatigue can linger for a couple of weeks. 

RSV symptoms typically last for a week or two, with the peak severity occurring around days 3-5. While most people recover on their own within that timeframe, some may experience lingering coughs or wheezing. Severe cases can last longer and may require hospitalization. 

<strong>Read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/is-it-just-a-cold-flu-or-covid-19-how-to-spot-the-differences-key-prevention-tips-article-151041302" data-type="tilCustomLink">Is It Just A Cold, Flu Or COVID-19? How To Spot The Differences, Key Prevention Tips</a></strong> 

unique symptoms of COVID

unique symptoms of flu

unique symptoms of influenza

unique symptoms of RSV

health and wellness

COVID

COVID-19

common cold

seasonal health

COVID 19 new strain

Seasonal changes not only welcome a new season, new weather, and new food habits, but it also bring in seasonal diseases, especially respiratory viruses. Though it is a yearly occurrence. Every time when the season changes, respiratory viruses attack you. However, what makes it different this year is the unique symptoms and the mutations that are happening among these viruses. The Common Seasonal Respiratory VirusesCOVID 19: It is a disease caused by a virus named SARS-CoV-2, and is very contagious.COVID-19 causes respiratory symptoms that can feel like a cold, flu, or pneumonia. It can also attack other parts of the body, even outside of the lungs and respiratory system, notes the official Government website of Michigan.Influenza: It is a contagious respiratory illness, typically in the nose, throat and lungs, caused by the influenza virus.It can result in mild to severe illness and sometimes, death.Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV): It is a common virus that causes mild, cold-like symptoms, including runny nose, coughing, sneezing, wheezing, and fever. These symptoms usually appear in stages and not all at once. In very young infants with RSV, the only symptoms may be irritability, decreased activity, and difficulty breathing.What Makes Them Unique In 2025: The Unique SymptomsCOVID 19From nuanced changes in patterns of symptoms to news on vaccine immunity and AI-driven virus forecasting, here's a closer look at the latest direction of COVID and its continued influence.While hospitalizations and COVID-19 deaths have significantly slowed from pandemic highs, the virus is hardly gone. In Australia alone, there were 58,000 cases of COVID so far in 2025, though experts say the real numbers are much greater, given decreasing testing and underreporting.Sentinel surveillance statistics by FluCan, a network of 14 hospitals, reported 781 hospitalizations due to COVID complication in the first quarter of 2025 alone. Another 289 deaths due to respiratory infections caused by COVID happened in the first two months of the year. These statistics point out that, although COVID seems less formidable now, it is still a critical healthcare issue for some sections of the population.Also Read: Unique Symptoms Of Covid In 2025 And How Long Infection Now Last Furthermore the mutation of virus into various strains like the Stratus or Nimbus, has further introduced a new set of symptoms, for instance: Anosmia is now more variant-specific, so it is a key symptom to monitor for new variantsRazor-blade like pain in the throatSore throat or hoarseness, as experts have also claimed that Stratus can give patients a "hoarse voice"Headaches that can last several daysNasal congestion and mild feverFatigue that lingers beyond acute phaseYou May Like To Read: Experts Warn Against The Unique Symptoms Of 'Stratus' Covid Strain That Has Infected A Large UK Population; Can It Evade Antibodies? Flu Or InfluenzaIn most years, flu activity in the U.S. typically follows a predictable pattern, starting in October, peaking between December and February, and fading by April. But the 2024–2025 season has defied that rhythm.Cases surged past the national baseline in December and then, unexpectedly, peaked again in February, a second wave that blindsided doctors and public health experts.As of March 2025, the CDC had reported an estimated 37 million influenza infections, 480,000 hospitalizations, and 21,000 deaths. Hospitalizations, in fact, reached their highest levels in 15 years.One key driver? A mismatch between circulating flu strains and this year’s vaccine. The dominant strains: H1N1 and H3N2, accounted for more than 99% of cases.H3N2, in particular, is known for mutating quickly and evading immune responses, and only about half of circulating H3N2 samples matched well with vaccine antibodies, according to CDC surveillance data.Read More: What Makes Flu Season 2025 Different? Unique Symptoms Of Flu In 2025 And How Long The Infection LastsUnique Symptoms Of Flu:Sudden onset feverSevere body aches and chillsSore throat and persistent coughNasal congestionDiarrhea and vomiting (more frequent in children)Extreme fatigueHeadacheIn some children, neurological symptoms like confusion or seizuresRespiratory Syncytial VirusWhat makes RSV different from the aforementioned viruses is that here, the cough is mild, while in flu and Covid-19, the cough is dry and persistent. In fact, in the other two cases, the cough can often worsen.Here, the fatigue too is mild, along with muscle aches, which could be very common or even intense in flu or COVID-19 symptoms. There is rarely any loss of taste or smell and no shortness of breath. What makes it different from flu or COVID-19 is the presence of runny nose and sneezing. How Long Do These Viruses Last?COVID-19 lasts anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. Some people may develop long COVID, a wide range of symptoms that last weeks, months, or years after COVID-19 illness, which is also known as Long Covid.Influenza, or the flu, typically lasts for about a week for most healthy individuals. However, some symptoms like cough and fatigue can linger for a couple of weeks. RSV symptoms typically last for a week or two, with the peak severity occurring around days 3-5. While most people recover on their own within that timeframe, some may experience lingering coughs or wheezing. Severe cases can last longer and may require hospitalization. Read: Is It Just A Cold, Flu Or COVID-19? How To Spot The Differences, Key Prevention Tips 

unique symptoms of seasonal respiratory virus like covid 19, flu or influenza and rsv in 2025 and how long does the infection last

The Science Behind Multi-Peptide Serums: Can They Really Slow Skin Ageing? Experts Weigh In

Credits: Canva

When it comes to skincare, there is always a new “miracle” in a bottle. One year it is snail mucin, another it is fermented rice water, and now, multi-peptide serums are making their way onto bathroom shelves, promising to keep our skin plump, firm, and suspiciously smooth for our age. But are they the real deal, or just another beauty fad? We turned to experts to find out. 

In the simplest terms, peptides are short chains of <span>amino acids</span>. Think of them as the Lego pieces that build proteins like <span>collagen</span>, elastin, and keratin, the big names responsible for keeping our skin bouncy, firm, and resilient.

“Peptides are the building blocks of collagen and elastin,” explains Dr Katheeja Nasika, Consultant, Department of Dermatology, Rela Hospital, Chennai. “Signalling peptides like palmitoyl pentapeptide stimulate fibroblasts to produce more collagen and elastin, while carrier peptides such as copper peptides help deliver trace elements that support tissue repair and offer <span>antioxidant defence against UV damage</span>.”

Single peptides target one problem at a time, but multi-peptide serums? They are the multi-taskers who answer emails, bake banana bread, and run 5Ks before breakfast.

“Multi-peptide serums have diverse peptides like signal peptides, carrier peptides, and enzyme inhibitors,” says Dr S. Sooriya, Consultant Dermatologist and Dermatosurgeon, SRM Global Hospitals, Chennai. “Signal peptides encourage more collagen and elastin, carrier peptides deliver essential minerals like copper and manganese to help skin heal and regenerate, and enzyme inhibitors slow down the breakdown of existing collagen.”

This triple-action approach means multi-peptide serums can, in theory, target fine lines, sagging, dullness, and skin repair all at once.

<h3><span rel="noindex">Are Peptides As Powerful As Retinoids</span>?</h3>

When it comes to skincare, there is always a new “miracle” in a bottle. One year it is snail mucin, another it is fermented rice water, and now, multi-peptide serums are making their way onto bathroom shelves, promising to keep our skin plump, firm, and suspiciously smooth for our age. But are they the real deal, or just another beauty fad? We turned to experts to find out. What Exactly Are Peptides?In the simplest terms, peptides are short chains of amino acids. Think of them as the Lego pieces that build proteins like collagen, elastin, and keratin, the big names responsible for keeping our skin bouncy, firm, and resilient.“Peptides are the building blocks of collagen and elastin,” explains Dr Katheeja Nasika, Consultant, Department of Dermatology, Rela Hospital, Chennai. “Signalling peptides like palmitoyl pentapeptide stimulate fibroblasts to produce more collagen and elastin, while carrier peptides such as copper peptides help deliver trace elements that support tissue repair and offer antioxidant defence against UV damage.”What Are Multi-Peptide Serums?Single peptides target one problem at a time, but multi-peptide serums? They are the multi-taskers who answer emails, bake banana bread, and run 5Ks before breakfast.“Multi-peptide serums have diverse peptides like signal peptides, carrier peptides, and enzyme inhibitors,” says Dr S. Sooriya, Consultant Dermatologist and Dermatosurgeon, SRM Global Hospitals, Chennai. “Signal peptides encourage more collagen and elastin, carrier peptides deliver essential minerals like copper and manganese to help skin heal and regenerate, and enzyme inhibitors slow down the breakdown of existing collagen.”This triple-action approach means multi-peptide serums can, in theory, target fine lines, sagging, dullness, and skin repair all at once.Are Peptides As Powerful As Retinoids?While peptides are promising, they are more of the slow-and-steady marathon runners of the anti-ageing race, whereas retinoids are the sprinters, showing visible changes faster.“Peptides are not as potent as retinoids,” says Dr Katheeja. “However, they can be a good alternative for people with sensitive skin or those who cannot tolerate retinoids. They can also be cycled along with retinoids for better results.”Dr Sooriya agrees: “Peptide research is still relatively new compared to retinoids, which have decades of evidence behind them. But with consistent use over 8 to 12 weeks, you can expect improvements in skin texture, plumpness, and reduced fine lines.”How to Get the Best Out of Your Peptide SerumPeptides are like that one friend who works best when combined with other actives. “Combining peptides with hyaluronic acid and vitamin C can have synergistic effects,” says Dr Katheeja. “They also work best as part of a complete anti-ageing skincare routine that includes sunscreen, antioxidants, a balanced diet, and healthy lifestyle habits.”Peptides would not save your skin if you are still skipping sunscreen, surviving on instant noodles, and sleeping four hours a night. Who Should Try Multi-Peptide Serums?If your skin is sensitive or prone to irritation, or you have had bad experiences with strong actives, peptides could be your new skincare BFF. “They are mild and safe to use alongside other gentle acids if combined properly,” says Dr Sooriya. “They would not irritate or burn the skin like stronger actives sometimes do.”And because they are generally well-tolerated, peptides are ideal for anyone who wants gradual, cumulative improvements without downtime or peeling.Gentle, Consistent, and Worth the Hype Peptides would not turn back time or erase a decade of sun damage overnight, but they can help your skin look smoother, firmer, and healthier over time.“They offer a gentle yet effective approach to supporting skin health and fighting visible signs of ageing,” says Dr Katheeja. “By restoring collagen and elastin production or delivering essential trace elements, they improve firmness, resilience, and overall texture.”Dr Sooriya puts it even more plainly: “They would not make your skin younger right away, but they can help keep it looking better when combined with other good skincare practices.”

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