Coronavirus or allergies? Heres how to tell the difference. – SILive.com

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. Its more than a year into the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, and every cough, sniffle and sneeze can still scare some into thinking they may have the virus.

But spring weather and warmer temperatures mark the return of trees and flowers blooming, along with pollen spreading far and wide. So its possible that those symptoms of common allergies could be mistaken for a case of COVID-19.

It should also be noted that a harsh allergy season is expected this year, according to AccuWeathers annual spring allergy forecast. Some parts of the United States could experience an early or extended season, and other areas could experience higher-than-usual pollen counts.

And the coronavirus could add another layer of complexity. Seasonal allergy symptoms can be complicated, as some symptoms -- such as congestion, stuffy nose and feeling a bit unwell -- appear similar to COVID-19.

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So how can you spot the difference between allergies and the coronavirus?

The easiest way to tell the difference is if you have a sustained fever a tell-tale sign of COVID-19. If your temperature is 100 degrees or higher, youre probably not suffering from allergies and you should get tested for the virus. Many people who contract COVID-19 also report a new loss of taste or smell, a symptom not linked to allergies.

The most common allergy symptoms are sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, and water and itchy eyes, according to FamilyAllergy.com none of which are usual symptoms of the coronavirus. So if youre sniffling and sneezing, rather than coughing, youre likely dealing with allergies and not COVID-19.

Allergies can sometimes result in coughing, shortness of breath, and wheezing, but theyre far less common, FamilyAllergy.com states.

If you usually take allergy medication to ease symptoms, and you notice its not working like it usually does, you may want to check your symptoms again and get a coronavirus test.

To recap, here are the most common symptoms of COVID-19:

Here are the most common symptoms of allergies:

There are some ways you can avoid your worst allergens this spring and summer season by taking steps to minimize your exposure to pollen and symptoms, according to AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Alan Reppert.

After it rains is normally a good time [to avoid allergens], he said. Before it rains, theres a lot more pollen in the air, and it can be washed out with the rain that comes through.

But he warned that some people suffer from thunderstorm-related pollen allergies, as it can be lofted into the air as a storm moves in. He also said morning hours are ideal for evading pollen. Keeping windows closed can prevent bringing pollen or other allergens into your home. And there are many over-the-counter allergy medications people can take as needed.

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Coronavirus or allergies? Heres how to tell the difference. - SILive.com