Allergies And Covid-19 Risks For Patients

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The peculiar symptoms attached to the COVID 19 virus could be mistaken for allergies, as it is almost the season for pollen allergies. It is rather safe to be aware of the main differences between Allergies and COVID 19. The symptoms of both COVID and certain allergies are pretty similar, so it’s possible to confuse one with another. But there are some noticeable differences too.

This article explains the major differences and similarities between COVID and allergy symptoms.

Main Signs Of Allergies

Here are the most common allergy symptoms.

  1. Irritation, sneezing, runny nose, and blocked nose (allergic rhinitis).
  2. Experiencing irritation, redness, and watering of the eyes (conjunctivitis).
  3. Breathing difficulties, chest tightness, and cough.
  4. Hives.
  5. Swollen lips, tongue, eyes, or face.
  6. Tummy pain, feeling sick, vomiting or diarrhea.
  7. Dry, red, and cracked skin.
  8. Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis).

The allergic reaction is anaphylactic shock or anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening in rare cases. It occurs when there is a severe reaction to an allergen. Anaphylaxis can be characterized by any of the symptoms above, as well as:

  1. Inflammation of the mouth. 
  2. Irritated throat.
  3. Breathing difficulty.
  4. A feeling of lightheadedness
  5. Confusion.
  6. A blue skin tone or lips.
  7. Loss of consciousness and collapse.    

If patients have allergies, it helps to master prevention and protective care strategies to stay safe.

Signs Of COVID 19 Infection

COVID 19 affects people differently; as a result, the symptoms vary from patient to patient; here are general symptoms of the virus.

  1. Fever.
  2. Dry cough.
  3. Tiredness.
  4. Diarrhea
  5.  Loss of taste or smell.
  6.  Headache.
  7.  Sore throat.
  8. Aches and pains.
  9.  Conjunctivitis.
  10. Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
  11. Chest pain or pressure.
  12. Loss of speech or movement.

The Major Difference Between Allergies And COVID 19

As much as both COVID 19 and allergies share common symptoms, one could sometimes be taken for the other. The major difference between allergies and COVID 19 is the means of transmission. While COVID is communicable and spreads through sneezes, coughs, and close personal contact, Allergies are not contagious at all.

Sometimes patients might display symptoms that could confuse even professionals. In such situations, the personal records of the patient should be brought forward to track any history of allergies; if none, comprehensive tests should be carried out to confirm what is wrong.

You can get tested for COVID-19 at your local urgent care center to make sure you don’t have any allergies!