Spring is packed with some of our favorite things — picnics, outdoor adventures and longer, warmer days — but it’s also when allergies act up and cold season lingers. With the new wrench we are all learning more about- Coronavirus, sometimes it can be tough to tell if you’re coming down with the flu, Coronavirus or if your sinuses are just revolting against the high pollen count, and changes in the weather. If you find yourself sniffling and aren’t sure whether you need chicken soup and Netflix or new allergy medication- don’t sweat it. AFC Urgent Care West Hartford is here to help you answer the question; 'do I have spring allergies, flu or Coronavirus?'. Below are the clear symptoms to help you tell the difference.

What’s the difference between Coronavirus, allergies and the flu?

All 3 have similar symptoms that overlap and may cause people to second guess when someone coughs or sneezes around them.
Here are some of the basic differences between spring allergies, flu and the Coronavirus that you should know:

• Spring allergy symptoms include itchy, red watery eyes, runny nose, rapid sneezing clear mucus, and sometimes even asthma symptoms.
• Flu often includes a fever, a hacking cough, muscle aches and chills and mucus is usually thick and yellow.
• COVID-19 is a new coronavirus that has similar symptoms, but the major symptom to look out for that differentiates it from allergies or the flu is a shortness of breath. The World Health Organization (WHO) is saying the averages are that 1 out of every 6 people who gets COVID-19 becomes seriously ill and develops difficulty breathing.

Below you’ll see the differences side by side to know what may be causing that itch to your nose.

How can I control my spring allergy symptoms?

There are preventative steps you can take when it comes to spring allergies . Try out these tips to prevent allergies from taking over your life during the high pollen and mold season:

• Stay indoors on high pollen count days
• Try using your air conditioner when indoors rather than opening doors or windows
• Take frequent showers when coming in from outdoors to wash away potential allergen triggers
• While in the car, use the air conditioner to filter pollen rather than opening windows

Sometimes, however, you may need to turn to medications for allergy relief. Over the counter nasal sprays such as Nasonex or Zyrtec often work, especially if administered a few weeks prior to allergy season, or drugs such as Clariton, Allegra or Benadryl can often do the trick.
If you or a loved one is suffering from spring allergies or a cold, don’y worry, relief awaits. Walk in to  AFC Urgent Care West Hartford at 1030 Boulevard, so we can find out what you have, and get you back on track to enjoying your spring.
*We understand that this is a very concerning time and you may have a lot of questions about the Coronavirus outbreak. Please read our Coronavirus Q and A’s, and you can always contact us for more information on the flu, Coronavirus and spring allergies at (860) 986-6440.