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Is it Allergies or COVID-19?

Is it Allergies or COVID-19?

person with allergiesYou’re enjoying the balmy, late-spring weather when boom, it hits—your throat is a little scratchy, your head feels off, and your nose starts to run at an alarming rate. Is simple allergy symptoms, or is it COVID-19?

Only a medical professional with COVID-19 testing capabilities can definitively answer this question. This is because COVID-19 symptoms can vary significantly from person to person, and some people may not have any noticeable symptoms at all. While you’re waiting for your coronavirus test results, though, here are a few key differentiators between allergies and COVID-19 symptoms that can help provide some clarity.

Seasonal allergies are more likely to cause:

  • Sneezing
  • Red, itchy, or watery eyes
  • Runny nose
  • Congested-feeling ears
  • Post-nasal drip

COVID-19 is more likely to cause:

  • Fever
  • Nausea or diarrhea
  • Dry cough
  • Body aches
  • Significant fatigue
  • Loss of taste or smell

A few other notes:

  • Symptoms caused by allergies should respond quickly to allergy medication.
  • Allergies may cause wheezing in people with asthma, which is not a COVID-19 symptom.
  • Allergies can lead to a feeling of itchiness, which is not a COVID-19 symptom.

Rapid COVID-19 Testing at Fast Track Urgent Care

Fast Track Urgent Care in Silver Spring and Kensington, Maryland, is pleased to offer rapid COVID-19 testing every day on a walk-in basis, along with convenient telemedicine services that allow patients to consult with our board-certified practitioners from the comfort and safety of home. Find the answers you need—contact us today to learn more!