During allergy season, it may be hard to tell the difference between COVID-19 and allergies. As symptoms change, here’s how you can tell if it’s COVID-19 or allergies Coronavirus. ", World Health Organization: "Q&A on coronaviruses (COVID-19). But in most cases, chest pain is not caused by a heart problem. Visit public places like stores only when you have to, especially if you’re in an area with lots of cases. Another difference between allergies and COVID-19 are eye symptoms. That’s caused by your body overreacting to things like pollen or mold. Wash your hands right away. Allergy shots may also be beneficial. If you get allergies every year, watch for symptoms that are different from what you’ve had before. Symptoms of the flu include a fever and a dry, persistent cough, but also a sore throat, nasal congestion, chill and sweats, body aches, fatigue, and a headache. Someone with chest congestion from allergies may experience chest discomfort, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America 1. As opposed to Covid-19, the symptoms of allergies include sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes and, occasionally, a cough. If you have any of these, especially a fever, call your doctor. Allergies typically cause nasal symptoms such as a runny nose and sinus congestion but do not usually result in a fever, as is found with coronavirus or the flu. Is Sneezing a Common Coronavirus Symptom? So when my chest felt tight for three days and I monitored my breath so closely that breathing started to feel unnatural, I worried, and worried some more. Chest discomfort may feel like tightness in the chest or minor pain. ", Novant Health: "Is it allergies of the coronavirus? by: Stassy Olmos. “I am pretty sure I have it.” I started saying this to colleagues and students around 9 March 2020. In the later stages, you might cough up phlegm. Dr. Maria Granzotti, chief medical officer at Ascension Texas, breaks down the differences between allergies, cold, strep, flu and COVID-19 to put your mind more at ease before going to the doctor Some people are infected but don’t notice any symptoms. Stomach Bug, Flu or COVID-19? But these can also be serious symptoms of … Allergy symptoms tend to be more long-lasting than viral symptoms. Dr. Watkins adds that, while chest pain can occur in COVID-19 patients, it is 'not a frequent symptom' so far. When social distancing or stay-at-home rules are in effect, always follow the COVID-19 safety steps recommended by public health officials: American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology: "Allergic Rhinitis," "Allergy Symptoms. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. The coronavirus (COVID-19) is a viral illness spread through droplets via coughing, sneezing, and close personal contact. Call your doctor if you have red eyes with other COVID-19 symptoms. Severe allergies can make you can feel tightness in your chest and shortness of breath, especially if you have asthma, too. If an individual has hay fever and asthma, they may also experience a tight feeling in their chest … Medications can typically treat your symptoms and allergy immunotherapy — allergy shots — can often help patients find long-term relief. Something else the CDC says, whether you have tightness in your chest or not: If you think you may have been exposed to COVID-19 and have developed any symptoms, like a … Often people with allergies have a history of seasonal allergies. Only about 1% to 3% of people with COVID-19 will have pinkeye. Crucially, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention does list chest pain as being a symptom that can be an emergency warning sign for COVID-19, … please consider making an online gift to Emerson Hospital so that we can continue to support our community’s health needs. ", Baylor College of Medicine: "Allergies versus COVID-19. The chest pain from COVID-19 would not come on suddenly. Visit our podcast page to find the latest episode or subscribe to the Health Works Here Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and wherever podcasts can be heard. Manitoba's online screening tool asks users a series of questions to determine if they should be tested for COVID-19 including if they've experienced certain symptoms. Dr. Schaberg addresses the differences between seasonal allergies and COVID-19. How to Tell the Difference, 52 Winter Activities for Families Safe from COVID-19, Frequently Asked Questions about COVID-19, COVID-19 Prevention and Social Distancing Guidelines, Emerson Health Works Podcast: The Science of Masks, Post-nasal drip (which can sometimes cause a mild sore throat). You can have allergies and a viral infection at the same time. One common symptom of COVID-19 is chest tightness and shortness of breath. Although the … Common COVID-19 Symptoms. COVID-19. 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