Allergies, the Flu and COVID-19
Oct 15, 2020 by Danielle Andersen
As the fall season rolls around, you’re used to feeling a bit under the weather. This wouldn’t usually be a cause for panic, since allergies and colds tend to flare up around this time. But this year, in addition to seasonal allergies and the flu, there’s another threat lingering – the COVID-19 virus.
If you find yourself sneezing more frequently or feel a tickle in your throat, you may wonder if your symptoms are from allergies or something more sinister. No need to panic, though! Evaluating your symptoms can help you determine if you’re dealing with allergies, the seasonal flu or COVID-19.
Allergies vs. Flu Symptoms
Seasonal allergies are incredibly common, and you can develop them at any time of the year. A key indicator that you’re simply dealing with allergies is if you’ve experienced these symptoms in the past when the fall season hits.
Seasonal Allergy Symptoms
There are also some distinct symptoms that only accompany seasonal allergies. These symptoms include the following:
- Itchy eyes
- Itchy nose
- Sneezing
- Runny, congested nose
- Sore throat
- Cough
The best way to combat seasonal allergies is to try over-the-counter antihistamines. Ask your doctor which brand and type of medicine they suggest. If you’re truly just dealing with seasonal allergies, then your symptoms should improve when taking antihistamines.
Flu Symptoms
Unlike allergy symptoms, flu symptoms are more intense in comparison and oftentimes make you feel very exhausted. Common flu symptoms include:
- A fever
- Chills
- Muscle aches
- Exhaustion
A flu illness tends to come on suddenly and can sometimes include less severe symptoms, including a headache, runny nose, sore throat, vomiting and diarrhea. It’s pretty easy to determine whether or not you have the flu, since a simple swab test done by your healthcare provider can confirm your illness.
It’s beneficial for you to talk to your doctor about getting the flu vaccine (if you haven’t already) to help protect yourself from the flu. The CDC recommends that everyone six months and older get a flu vaccine every season to help reduce your risk of getting the flu.
Allergies vs. COVID-19 Symptoms
With the novel coronavirus present this flu season, a common question you might ask yourself is, “do seasonal allergies cause symptoms similar to COVID-19 symptoms?”
The short answer is - yes. Both seasonal allergies and COVID-19 share some symptoms, such as a sore throat and a cough. However, they also have very different, distinct symptoms that can help you determine the severity of your symptoms.
COVID-19 Symptoms
COVID-19 symptoms include:
- A fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Lack of taste or smell
A distinct difference between COVID-19 and seasonal allergies is that when you’re just dealing with allergies, you will most likely not have a fever of any kind. If you find yourself experiencing any of these symptoms, it may be a good idea to contact your doctor to find out whether you should be tested for the virus. The criteria for getting tested are constantly changing and it would be best to check your eligibility before going to a testing location.
Stay Healthy this Fall at Knute Nelson
At Knute Nelson, you can count on us putting residents’ health, wellness and safety above all else. We are actively taking precautions to mitigate the risk of the flu and COVID-19 outbreaks in our facilities, and are monitoring and following the advice from the Minnesota Department of Health and other health agencies.
While we are committed to resident and staff health and safety, we know how important it is to continue living life to the fullest. Through virtual visits, outdoor visits and compassionate care visits, residents can continue enjoying connecting with family, friends and neighbors.
Contact us today to learn more about the various precautions we are taking to keep all residents and staff members healthy at Knute Nelson.
