"Is it COVID or just allergies?" This question has become increasingly complex as COVID variants evolve. Dr. Krikor Manoukian, Medical Director at HeyAllergy and board-certified allergist, provides expert guidance: "While some symptoms overlap, there are key differences that can help you make an informed decision about your health."
Quick Symptom Comparison Guide
Three Key Questions to Ask Yourself
Dr. Manoukian recommends asking yourself these questions:
- Do you have a fever or body aches?
- Yes → Likely COVID, get tested
- No → Could be allergies
- Are your eyes itchy?
- Yes → Likely allergies
- No → Consider COVID testing
- Have your symptoms changed suddenly?
- Yes → Consider COVID testing
- No → More likely allergies
Unique COVID Symptoms (Get Tested If You Have These)
Current COVID variants typically cause:
- Fever (100.4°F or higher)
- Sudden loss of taste or smell
- Body aches and chills
- Severe fatigue
- Shortness of breath
"These symptoms rarely occur with allergies," explains Dr. Manoukian. "If you experience any of these, especially fever or loss of taste/smell, seek COVID testing promptly."
Clear Signs of Allergies
Allergy symptoms typically include:
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Clear nasal discharge
- Sneezing fits
- Symptoms that worsen outdoors
- History of seasonal allergies
- Improvement with antihistamines
"Allergy symptoms tend to be consistent and predictable," notes Dr. Manoukian. "They often correlate with specific triggers or seasons."
When Symptoms Overlap
Some symptoms can occur in both conditions:
- Coughing
- Congestion
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Sore throat
How to differentiate:
- COVID symptoms typically appear suddenly
- Allergy symptoms often follow patterns
- COVID may include fever and body aches
- Allergies usually involve itching
Risk Factors to Consider
Consider these factors when evaluating your symptoms:
COVID Risk Factors:
- Recent exposure to positive cases
- Attendance at large gatherings
- Travel to high-risk areas
- Work in high-exposure settings
Allergy Risk Factors:
- History of allergies
- High pollen counts
- Recent exposure to known triggers
- Seasonal patterns
When to Get Tested for COVID
Seek immediate testing if you:
- Develop sudden fever
- Experience new loss of taste/smell
- Have been exposed to COVID
- Feel unusually fatigued
- Have difficulty breathing
Managing Allergy Symptoms Safely
If your symptoms align with allergies:
- Track pollen counts
- Take prescribed allergy medications
- Use air purifiers
- Consider long-term solutions like immunotherapy
The Role of Professional Care
Through telemedicine platforms like HeyAllergy, you can:
- Get expert evaluation of symptoms
- Receive proper allergy testing
- Develop treatment plans
- Monitor symptom changes
- Access emergency guidance
Special Considerations for 2024
Current COVID variants may present differently:
- Symptoms may be milder
- Onset can be gradual
- Loss of taste/smell less common
- Upper respiratory symptoms more prevalent
Taking Action: Next Steps
If You Suspect COVID:
- Isolate immediately
- Schedule COVID testing
- Monitor symptoms
- Contact healthcare provider
If You Suspect Allergies:
- Track your symptoms
- Note any patterns
- Consider allergy testing
- Explore treatment options
Expert Support Through Telemedicine
Don't let uncertainty about your symptoms cause anxiety. Schedule a consultation with a board-certified allergist who can:
- Evaluate your specific symptoms
- Recommend appropriate testing
- Develop a management plan
- Provide ongoing support
Remember, whether dealing with COVID or allergies, early identification and proper treatment are crucial for optimal outcomes.
