It’s that time of year again—allergy season! Throughout the country, people have been suffering from seasonal allergies due to spring pollen. And while this is just an annual occurrence that people have learned to deal with, the coronavirus pandemic has given some additional cause for concern. Allergy symptoms can range from mild to severe, and in some cases are very similar to early signs of coronavirus. If you suffer from allergies but worry that it may be something more serious this time around, the best thing to do is to analyze your symptoms carefully. Keep reading to find out more about seasonal allergy vs. coronavirus symptoms.
Allergy Symptoms
Experts estimate that over 60 million people in the United States have seasonal allergies; this is a vastly larger number than that of those affected with coronavirus in our country. However, many allergy symptoms mirror those seen in coronavirus patients, especially those with more mild cases. Here is a comprehensive list of common allergy signs to help you determine whether or not you need to worry:
- Runny nose
- Dry, tickly, or sore throat
- Cough
- Itchy eyes
- Congestion
- Postnasal drainage
- Headache
- Sneezing
- Itchy nose
Symptoms like runny nose, congestion, and cough are some of the key allergy symptoms that show similarities to symptoms of COVID-19. If you are accustomed to getting a few or all of these typical symptoms around this time of year and have adhered to social distancing guidelines, it might be in the clear. Another way to tell if your symptoms are a result of hay fever or COVID-19 infection is if you find that you get relief from your usual allergy medications like a nasal spray.
Symptoms of COVID-19
If, after reviewing symptoms of seasonal allergies, you are still concerned that you may have contracted coronavirus, there are a few unique symptoms to look out for that may indicate that you need to seek medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. COVID-19 symptoms are in line with those associated with allergies or the common cold, so keep a lookout for these to give you a better idea of your individual situation.
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Chills
- Trouble breathing
- Pain or pressure in chest
- Confusion
- Body aches
- New loss of taste or smell
Those with confirmed cases of coronavirus have reported the aforementioned symptoms in varying degrees of severity. Some of these symptoms are similar to that of the flu or common cold, but if you experience any of them and have any reason to suspect that you may be infected, the best thing to do is find somewhere to have COVID-19 swabbing performed so you can plan your next steps. If you are experiencing some of the more dangerous symptoms like breathing problems, it is imperative that you get yourself emergency care as quickly as possible.
Village Emergency Centers— Your Local Resource for COVID-19
At Village Emergency Centers, we take our role as a healthcare provider very seriously, especially during these troubling times. If you or someone you know hasif confused seasonal allergy vs coronavirus symptoms, have reason to believe that they may be infected, or simply want to learn more so that they are prepared, contact us today. We offer exceptional 24/7 emergency care and coronavirus testing with little to no wait. We are also able to debunk any coronavirus myths and inform you on practices to fight infection like washing your hands and boosting your immune system. Don’t wait to get treatment and visit a Village Emergency Center near you.