Medical experts give tips to combat the 'Coachella Cough'

Every year during festival season, the Coachella Valley doesn’t just fill up with music lovers—it fills up with coughs and sniffles, too. It's known locally as "Festival Flu" or the "Coachella Cough." This dry, scratchy throat seems to hit concertgoers after spending long hours under the desert sun. Add in swirling dust, smoke, and tight crowds, and it’s the perfect storm for irritation. Medical experts say Coachella’s unique desert setting intensifies symptoms. Unlike other festivals around the world, the dry air and sand here can trigger stronger respiratory issues. Many festivalgoers notice the symptoms after day one or two of nonstop partying. Some say it feels like allergies, others like the early stages of a cold. Doctors recommend wearing a mask or scarf to help block out dust and irritants. Staying hydrated and taking breaks in shaded areas also helps. For those already feeling the aftermath, over-the-counter allergy medications may offer some relief. The best medicine, though, might be rest and a break from the crowd.