Spring allergies are an itch you don’t want to deal with this spring season. Since we had another warm winter, pollen levels may be stronger and last longer due to the climate change. Let’s also keep in mind that COVID-19 hasn’t left our lives, yet. Even though some allergy symptoms and COVID-19 symptoms overlap, there are differences--and just because you’re sneezing or coughing, it doesn’t necessarily mean it's COVID-19. 

Pollen is the grains or tiny seeds of flowering plants, trees, and grasses. These seeds can be carried on the wind and can cause various symptoms, or none at all, in individuals who are exposed to them.

 

AFC Urgent Care Torrington is here to help answer “is it COVID-19 or Spring Allergies?” We've created a guide to help you understand the difference between spring allergies and COVID-19. 

What’s the difference between COVID-19 symptoms, and spring allergy symptoms?

For people with hay fever, also known as “allergic rhinitis,” breathing in pollen can cause sneezing, congestion, and a runny nose. Pollen exposure can also result in “allergic conjunctivitis” in some individuals, causing red, watery, or itchy eyes. There are many differences between COVID-19 symptoms and spring allergy symptoms. Some symptoms below may vary depending on the individual.

Spring allergies can cause:

• Sneezing
• Itching of the nose, eyes or roof of the mouth
• Runny, stuffy nose
• Watery, red or swollen eyes (conjunctivitis)

Possible COVID-19 symptoms may include:

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• Muscle or body aches
• Headache
• New loss of taste or smell
• Sore throat
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea

Symptoms may vary. Some people may not even experience any symptoms. 

Preparing For A Severe Spring Allergy Season

If you are allergic to pollen, or if you have asthma you can take steps to protect yourself:

• Check pollen forecasts on local news and online sources and plan to spend less time outdoors when pollen levels will be high.
• Take your allergy and/or asthma medications as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Don’t touch your eyes while you are outside, and wash your hands when you go back inside (before you touch your eyes).
• Shower after being outside to remove pollen from your skin and hair.

Here are some helpful tips on protecting yourself from COVID-19

• Wear a mask 
• Stay up to date with the recent vaccinations 
• Avoid tight crowded spaces
• Avoid people who have tested positive for COVID-19

Prepare For Asthma Flare ups, Too!

Spring allergies may also bring on more asthma flare ups. If you normally suffer from allergies every year and have asthma, you may want to consider stocking up on extra inhalers, or visiting your doctor on a plan to manage asthma symptoms.

If you need prescription refills or have trouble managing your asthma symptoms, we can help treat you.

AFC Urgent Care Torrington Can Help Treat Spring Allergies And Test You For COVID-19

Are you worried about the spring allergy season? AFC Urgent Care Torrington is here to help with allergy relief! Our staff is equipped to handle and treat spring allergies and test you for COVID-19. If you do 

We’re here for you 7 days a week, and we also offer appointments, too!