Is It Allergies or Coronavirus?

Do you panic every time you have a tickle in your throat or cough and worry that you have COVID-19? Do you get glared at every time you walk into a store and sneeze (even if you are wearing a mask)? Welcome to allergy season. For people who suffer from allergies, this time of year can be a struggle under normal circumstances but add the fact that we’re in the midst of a global pandemic with overlapping symptoms and it can be a very stressful experience. So how do you if it’s your seasonal allergies or coronavirus?

Are You Fever-Free?

While there are people who have COVID-19 and remain asymptomatic, if you are coughing and sneezing but do not develop a fever or have chills, it is more likely that your allergies are being triggered. Even if you do not have a fever, if the symptoms subside when you are away from your typical allergy triggers – pollen, dust, pets – it’s more likely to be your allergies than COVID-19. As well, you can usually get relief from your allergy symptoms by taking Sudafed or an allergy medication. Those medications would not have an impact on coronavirus symptoms.

Did You Have the Same Symptoms Last Year?

If the symptoms you have are ones you had last spring and summer, it’s probably your allergies. Coronavirus did not begin spreading in the U.S. until 2020. If you are concerned that your symptoms are more than the beginning of your typical allergy season, or if you have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for coronavirus, you should get tested.

Wear a Mask

Whether it’s allergies or COVID-19, you should wear a mask when you are out in public and risk coming into contact with others. Masks can help reduce the spread of coronavirus by as much as 80%, so the effort you make helps your entire community. If you are concerned about having COVID-19, testing capacity has increased significantly and in most places, you can get tested if you have symptoms. Don’t hesitate to contact your physician.

If you have severe allergies, schedule an evaluation with an experienced ear, nose and throat doctor. Board certified physicians with New York ENT have extensive experience diagnosing and treating a wide variety of nasal conditions. Fill out the form on this page or call our office at 212-873-6036 to schedule an appointment today.