COVID-19 and allergies can sometimes share similar symptoms, such as dry cough, sore throat, headaches and difficulty breathing. A specialist in infectious diseases of CD has tips to help prevent confusion.
COVID-19 and allergies can sometimes share similar symptoms, such as dry cough, sore throat, headaches and difficulty breathing. A specialist in infectious diseases of CD has tips to help prevent confusion.
“Most people who have an allergy know what their allergy symptoms are – so what I would advise is to look for something that is outside of these symptoms,” said Dr. Maria Elena Ruiz, an infectious disease specialist at MedStar Washington Hospital Center.
Fever – “With allergy attacks, you wouldn’t expect a fever,” said Ruiz.
Headache – “People with COVID-19 have headaches, and usually the headache is very strong and associated with fever,” said Ruiz. Uncomfortable headaches related to allergy attacks and congestion tend to occur behind the eyes and sinuses.
Fatigue – Fatigue can be associated with allergy attacks, but when it results from the virus it can be severe. “People with COVID will experience more fatigue when they can’t get out of bed,” said Ruiz.
Itch – Allergies can cause itchy ears, throat and eyes. The itch is not a symptom of a viral illness. “In COVID-19, there may be eye irritation and watery eyes, but this is unusual. I would consider it more consistent with allergies, ”said Ruiz.
Medication – People who normally succumb to seasonal allergies should be careful to avoid allergies and take their medications.
“In fact, take your medications instead of waiting for allergies to settle, so that you can avoid the confusion and stress of trying to solve the problem,” said Ruiz. “Take the meds. It is something I do precisely because I don’t want to come to the hospital and cough, sneeze and make people nervous ”.
Finally, Ruiz warns that COVID-19 is still circulating and infecting people; you must continue to take precautions. And remember that the vaccine has no effect until two weeks after the second dose, if it is a two-dose vaccine.
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