As trees continue to bloom and pollen counts start to rise, we normally think about allergies during this time of season. With the coronavirus in the back of our minds, we start to question if that sneeze or cough is from allergies or maybe something else.
“Given the current pandemic conditions, every sneeze and drippy nose is sure to increase anxiety,” said Dr. Kali Gerace, an allergist with Advanced ENT and Allergy.
Currently, everyone is being isolated and practicing social distancing. However, many people are going on walks around the neighborhood and kids playing in their backyard to get fresh air. While seasonal allergies and the coronavirus share certain symptoms, there are some telltale signs to distinguish one from the other.
Dr. Gerace continued, “If you typically suffer from seasonal allergies and your symptoms include itchy eyes or nose, and as long as you remain fever free, it’s most likely just an allergy flare and will respond to typical allergy treatments.”
Typically, with allergies, there may be a dry or wet cough but there is not shortness of breath involved and there is also no fever involved, so that’s how you distinguish between the two.
Below are common symptoms for allergies and the coronavirus.
Allergy symptoms:
- Repetitive sneezing
- Coughing
- Watery, itchy eyes
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Postnasal drainage
Coronavirus symptoms:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Symptoms can persist several days
If your allergy symptoms aren’t well controlled, we are currently seeing new and follow up patients via telemedicine to help you feel your best! Call our office to set up one of these visits.
