Have you suddenly started sneezing and coughing a little while your nose is running? The biggest question that comes to our mind at times like these is, "Is this a normal allergy, or is it COVID?" In fact, some of the symptoms of both are similar, making it a bit difficult to tell them apart. But don't worry, today we'll talk about how to accurately distinguish and identify these two conditions.
How do you tell the difference from the symptoms?
The best way to tell the difference between COVID and allergies is to have a good understanding of the symptoms. While some symptoms are common to both, some are specific to only one.
Simply put, you will never get a fever from an allergy. However, a fever is a very common symptom of COVID. Similarly, body aches are not a symptom of an allergy, but body aches are very likely to occur with COVID.
Another thing is, if you have seasonal allergies, these symptoms usually appear at the same time every year. For example, for some people, this condition occurs during the pollen season. However, the Covid virus does not spread in a specific seasonal pattern, and can be transmitted at any time when the virus is circulating in the community.
Let us now clearly distinguish the symptoms of these two conditions.
| Symptoms of allergies | Symptoms of COVID |
|---|---|
|
|
| Absent symptoms: fever, body aches, loss of smell/taste. | Less common symptoms: Itchy eyes (common in allergies). |
Important thing to remember: If you have asthma along with allergies, you may experience chest tightness or difficulty breathing. These symptoms can also be signs of a severe case of COVID. If you have difficulty breathing, severe chest pain, etc., go to the nearest Emergency Department (ETU) immediately.
Have Covid symptoms changed over time?
Yes. As new variants of the Covid virus emerged, some changes in symptoms were also seen. While muscle pain and severe fatigue were the main symptoms in the early stages, research shows that sore throats became more common as the Omicron variant spread than the Delta variant.
Omicron and subsequent variants in particular caused infections related to the upper respiratory tract. That is, they affected parts such as the nose and throat more. This is why the possibility of confusing COVID symptoms with allergy symptoms increased even more.
How to confirm exactly?
If you can't tell for sure whether you have COVID or an allergy, the best and most accurate way is to get a COVID test. Either a Rapid Antigen Test or a PCR test will tell you for sure whether you have COVID or not.
If you are experiencing frequent allergy symptoms, it is best to see an allergist to get a proper diagnosis. This will help you determine exactly what you are allergic to.
Is sneezing a common symptom of COVID?
Sneezing is very common in allergies. It is also common in viral infections like the common cold. Research has found that the COVID virus can also stimulate the sensory nerves in our nose and cause sneezing. Therefore, while sneezing may be a symptom of COVID, it is not conclusive on its own.
But if you know you have COVID, it's important to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when you sneeze to prevent spreading the virus to others. And don't forget to wash your hands thoroughly afterward.
Is red eyes an allergy or Covid?
If your eyes are red, it is very unlikely that it is caused by COVID. A very small number of people, about 1%-3% of those infected with COVID, develop red eyes, or conjunctivitis.
But allergic conjunctivitis is very common. It is not contagious. In addition to redness of the eyes, symptoms such as itching, watering, burning, and swelling can also be seen. Usually, these symptoms appear in both eyes in the case of an allergy. In the case of a viral or bacterial infection, the symptoms often start in only one eye. However, if you have any problems with your eyes, it is safest to consult your doctor.
Can allergies and Covid occur together?
Yes, you definitely can. If you have allergies, there is no way you can get COVID at the same time. If you are experiencing typical allergy symptoms like itchy eyes and a runny nose, along with COVID symptoms like fever and fatigue, be sure to call your doctor for advice.
How do treatments change?
These two conditions are treated in two very different ways.
For allergies, the best thing to do is to stay away from your triggers as much as possible. In addition, antihistamines (e.g. cetirizine, fexofenadine) and other allergy medications can be used as directed by your doctor.
For COVID, if the symptoms are mild, you can get better by taking common medicines like paracetamol for fever and pain, getting plenty of rest, and drinking plenty of fluids. However, if the illness is severe or you have other chronic conditions, you may need to take specific antiviral medicines (e.g. `Molnupiravir (Lagevrio)`, `Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir (Paxlovid)`) prescribed by a doctor.
Some doctors say that some allergy medications can help relieve COVID symptoms to some extent. However, be sure to consult your doctor before using any medication.
Take-Home Message
- If you have a fever or body aches , it's more likely a symptom of COVID or another infection than an allergy.
- Rather than worrying about symptoms, it is best to get a COVID test.
- Both allergies and Covid can occur at the same time.
- Itchy eyes and sneezing are very common with allergies. These are not so common with Covid.
- If you are concerned about any symptoms or if symptoms worsen, see your doctor immediately.
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