How to differentiate between the symptoms of allergies and COVID-19, according to local allergy experts

If you’ve spent any time outside in the past month, you may have noticed that spring allergy season is out in full force in Charlotte.

Unfortunately, coronavirus came to Charlotte around the same time as the pollen. Understanding the difference between the symptoms of coronavirus and allergies can help you stay calm and get the help you need in order to feel better.

We asked the allergy experts from Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates (CEENTA) for a breakdown of the symptoms and how to seek treatment for allergies right now.

Common symptoms of allergies

If you’re one of the 50 million Americans who suffer from allergies each year, you know how miserable the symptoms can be.

The most common symptoms of allergies include:

• Sneezing
• Nasal stuffiness
• Runny nose
• Itchy and watery eyes
• Post-nasal drainage
• Occasionally even rashes

Note: As we get closer to summer, the allergens causing your symptoms may change a bit, but the symptoms themselves will stay relatively the same.

Common symptoms of COVID-19

Though symptoms of the novel coronavirus are still emerging and being studied, the most common are:

• Fever
• Shortness of breath
• Dry cough
• Tiredness
• Aches and pains
• Nasal congestion
• Runny nose
• Sore throat
• Diarrhea
• Altered sense of smell

Remember that it’s also possible to be asymptomatic, aka you have the virus but don’t exhibit any symptoms/only experience mild ones.

While we’re at it, it’s also helpful to differentiate between the symptoms of allergies and of colds and other viruses. Generally, colds don’t last as long as allergies and are sometimes accompanied by fever and body aches.

How to tell the difference between symptoms

Allergies mostly affect the nose and eyes and almost never lead to shortness of breath. You’ll also experience allergies at the same time every year.

The duration of your symptoms can also be an indicator. Allergies are usually ongoing for the length of the season, while other illnesses generally clear up quicker.

Of course, some symptoms can overlap between allergies and coronavirus. When in doubt, it’s always best to talk to a professional. If you think you’re suffering from allergies, CEENTA has your back with in-person and virtual care options.

When and how to receive care

When to seek care
Roy Lewis, MD at CEENTA’s Mooresville office, says that treating your allergies professionally is about improving your quality of life.

If you’ve “tried the over the counter medications and are tired of the persistent symptoms,” or if “you are just plain frustrated with the symptoms and want to improve the quality of your life,” it’s probably time to see a doctor, he says.

What to expect during a virtual visit
To keep everyone as safe and healthy as possible, CEENTA is offering virtual visits for patients with symptoms that can be managed without in-person care.

“With allergies, you can actually do a lot virtually, unless they’re having trouble breathing. You can…gain a significant amount of information from symptoms they’ve had in the past, what you’ve done to treat them, etc. You can order some testing even if you see a patient virtually,” says Gregory Parsons, MD at CEENTA’s Lancaster and Rock Hill offices.

Like a regular doctor’s appointment, you can discuss your symptoms and receive a diagnosis during a virtual visit. You’ll also have an opportunity to ask questions and get recommendations for the treatments you need to feel better.

To prepare for a virtual visit, you should make sure all of the technology you’ll need is working properly. It’s also good to know what medicines you’re currently taking and what you’ve used in the past.

To make an in-person or virtual appointment at one of CEENTA’s 17 locations, request an appointment online or call 704-295-3000.

To learn more about managing your allergy symptoms, check out CEENTA’s blog.

(This content was created in partnership with Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A.)