It feels like spring has sprung earlier this year since many of our allergy symptoms have begun to resurface quicker than in years past. It also might be due to all that extra, socially distanced time we’ve been spending at the park! But can we be 100% certain that what we’re experiencing is allergy symptoms and not COVID-19?

There are several differences between the two, and our team at AFC Urgent Care Memphis highlights them below.

What Are the Key Differences Between COVID-19 and Allergies?

Although the two types of symptoms can look similar at times, there are several tell-tale differences. For one, experts say that fever is one of the biggest differentiators between seasonal allergies and the coronavirus as COVID-19 can cause a fever while allergies can’t.

We’ve listed some more key differences below.

More Key Differences Between Allergies and COVID-19

• Allergies will come with some level of itchiness, such as itchy or watery eyes, an itchy nose and an itchy throat, while coronavirus will not.
• A sore throat or body aches could be an indication that it’s something more serious. While allergies can cause fatigue, a quick onset of aches and pains, fatigue, exhaustion or weakness is unlikely with allergies and is much more common with COVID-19.
• If you’re producing clear-colored mucus, it’s likely allergies or cold symptoms and not a COVID-19 infection.

What Can I Do to Reduce My Allergy Symptoms?

Heading outdoors for a little vitamin D exposure is great, but you will also be exposing yourself to common spring allergens, such as tree and flower pollen, which may stir up allergies.

In addition to what we’ve listed below, the best way to reduce your allergy symptoms is by reducing your exposure and drinking lots of water to help flush out your immune system.

Ways to Reduce Allergy Symptoms

• Take over-the-counter medications, such as decongestants and antihistamines.
• Keep a diary of what triggers your allergy symptoms.
• Stay indoors if the pollen count is very high for the day.
• Change clothes after coming indoors to avoid breathing in lingering allergens.
• Clean air filters often.
• Take a shower after going outside.

Feeling less than your best? Don’t hesitate to visit our AFC Urgent Care Memphis team! We’re here for you now and always.