INTRODUCTION
As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, allergy season has become more complicated. If you suffer from allergies or sinus problems, you may not be able to distinguish between those symptoms and COVID-19 symptoms.
There are some similarities between sinus and allergy symptoms and COVID-19 symptoms, so it is a wise idea to know the differences between them. In this way, you and your provider can manage your health care effectively.
ALLERGIES SYMPTOMS:
People with seasonal allergies will generally notice that their symptoms follow a seasonal pattern during that season. Perennial allergies, on the other hand, occur all year round. Allergic symptoms include runny noses, watery eyes, sneezing, dry coughs, and nasal congestion.
You should also keep an eye out for any new symptoms you may experience during your typical allergy season. They could be due to something other than allergies.
SINUS SYMPTOMS
Allergies and the common cold can easily be confused with sinus problems. Headaches, facial pain, a runny nose, or cold-like symptoms lasting longer than seven to 10 days; discolored nasal drainage (that appears green or yellow); a foul odor in the nose; or a cough can also occur.
If your sinuses become blocked or stuffed with fluid, you may have a sinus infection, also called sinusitis. Among the most common symptoms of a sinus infection are facial pressure and pain, as well as nasal discharge that is discolored and congested.
COVID 19 SYMPTOMS:
It is caused by a novel coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2, known as COVID-19. Each individual’s symptoms may vary. Depending on how severe the disease is, infected individuals may have no symptoms or require hospitalization. Fever or chills; body pains; a new cough, headache, breathing difficulties, congestion or runny nose unrelated to allergies; a loss of taste or smell; or gastrointestinal problems like nausea or diarrhea are common symptoms of COVID-19. Sneezing is not a typical symptom of COVID-19.
ALLERGIES VS SINUS VS COVID 19:
The symptoms of sinusitis and allergies can overlap, and both have similarities to COVID-19. Symptoms of COVID-19 can include a runny nose, for instance. There are, however, some symptoms that are unique to COVID-19. Allergies and sinus infections do not cause stomach ache, fever, body aches or a new loss of taste or smell.
| Symptom | COVID-19 | Seasonal Allergies | Sinus Problems |
| Fever and chills | X | ||
| Muscle and body aches | X | ||
| New loss of taste or smell | X | X | |
| Nausea or vomiting | X |
WHERE TO GET HELP:
The most appropriate place to start if you suffer from chronic allergy or sinus issues, and they are negatively affecting your quality of life, is with your primary care provider or an ear, nose, and throat specialist. Your usual allergy symptoms or sinus problems are well known to you. Symptoms that are unusual for you or that don’t improve with over-the-counter remedies such as oral antihistamines, nasal steroid sprays or nasal saline mist should be reported to your doctor immediately, and contact with other people should be avoided. If you think you’ve been exposed to the virus, this is especially critical.
You should consult your primary care provider if you’re unsure whether your symptoms are due to allergies, sinus issues, or COVID-19. We encourage you to talk to a professional at Columbia Allergy today to learn more about how we can help you find relief from allergies.
