Allergies vs COVID-19 Symptoms

As Autumn dances in, allergies do as well. Cooler air contains some pollen that is just as irritable as spring allergies. Allergens from crisp, fallen leaves and grass float through the air and enter the nose, eyes, mouth, and ears. Two of the most common causes of fall allergies are ragweed and mold spores. Those with asthma are highly susceptible to mold particles as well. 

With the recent pandemic, discerning COVID-19 symptoms from common autumn allergies is important. Fall is also prime cold and flu season, so it’s beneficial to understand the difference between what qualifies as a COVID-19 symptom and what is just pesky allergies.

What To Look For

It seems like the virus causes just about every uncomfortable symptom known to man. From congestion to coughing, COVID-19 is tricky to discern from more benign conditions like colds or allergies.

Hands down, if you have a fever or feel nauseous, you should get tested for COVID-19. While it is not always easy to tell what is an allergy or just a run-of-the-mill cold, you can ask yourself if the symptoms are something you’ve experienced before or if they are unfamiliar to you.

COVID-19 Symptoms:

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue 
• Muscle or body aches
• New loss of taste or smell
• Sore throat
• Congestion or runny nose
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea

Take care of yourself and those around you by washing your hands, wearing a mask, and covering your nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing. 

Ways to lessen allergy symptoms

There are a few ways to reduce the irritants that trigger allergy symptoms:

• Don’t hang laundry outside to prevent pollen buildup
• Stay indoors on dry, windy days
• Keep your house as clean as you can
• Ask your doctor about allergy immunotherapy