Is it Allergies, or is it COVID?

Summer Solstice was last Sunday, so summer is officially here. That means barbecues, beach trips, and the dreaded return of seasonal allergies. If you have seasonal allergies, you cringe at the idea of being outside for any amount of time, struggling to breath while plant dust seeps into your sinuses. Heaven forbid you skip your daily allergy regime! And with the added layer of new Covid-19 strains spreading across the US, there is every reason to worry about your health. Despite the availability of a vaccine, Covid is still very present in our world, and the virus continues to evolve. Even if you are vaccinated, it’s important to stay vigilant when it comes to any symptoms you have, and make sure to always follow up with your doctor, they know you!

But how do you know if it’s allergies or if it’s Covid? Although the two have a lot of overlapping symptoms, there are some key signs that you can be on the lookout for. If you suspect you have Covid, contact your doctor right away and stay home.

Allergies: Common Symptoms

• Itchy nose and inner ear

• Watery eyes

• Congestion in the nose and sinuses

• Sinus headache

• Sneezing or a mild cough

Covid 19: Common Symptoms

• Fever with chills

• Cough and shortness of breath

• Loss of taste or smell

• Body aches and tiredness

• Headache, but not sinus related

If you have a medical condition that can exacerbate either Covid or seasonal allergies, like asthma, it’s important to stay mindful of how your symptoms are evolving. Even if you’ve been vaccinated against Covid, we still don’t know how Covid can continue to change. Wash your eyes, avoid touching your face, and talk to your doctor if you think you’re sick!