Spring is in the air, bringing with it the dreaded pollen season and the anxiety of differentiating between hay fever and COVID-19. Both conditions share similar symptoms, making it challenging to tell them apart. Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is a common allergic response to pollen, dust mites, mold, or pet dander. On the other hand, COVID-19 is caused by the novel coronavirus and presents with more severe symptoms.

The Early Symptoms

• A runny or blocked nose
• Sneezing
• Sore throat
• Tiredness
• Headache
• Cough (especially from postnasal drip in hay fever)

COVID-19 symptoms usually include fever, loss of taste or smell, body aches, chills, and shortness of breath. These symptoms tend to appear suddenly and worsen over a few days, unlike the more predictable pattern of hay fever symptoms.

Hay Fever Symptoms

Hay fever typically affects the face, with symptoms like itchy, watery eyes, sneezing fits, and congestion. These symptoms often occur seasonally and can be triggered by outdoor activities or exposure to allergens like pollen. Sneezing in hay fever usually happens in rapid bursts, while COVID-related sneezing is less common.

Taste and Smell

A significant difference between hay fever and COVID-19 is the sudden loss of taste or smell, which is a hallmark symptom of the virus. In hay fever, a dulled sense of taste or smell is usually due to nasal congestion rather than a direct effect on the nervous system.

How to Differentiate

To confirm whether you have hay fever or COVID-19, consider taking a rapid antigen test for the virus. Additionally, trying an over-the-counter antihistamine can help. If your symptoms improve after taking the medication, it's likely hay fever. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, it may be COVID-19.

Having Both Conditions

It is possible to have both hay fever and COVID-19 simultaneously. If you experience allergy symptoms along with fatigue, fever, or difficulty breathing, it's essential to get tested for COVID-19 and follow isolation protocols to prevent the spread of the virus.

When in doubt, especially if your symptoms feel different or more severe than usual, it's crucial to prioritize your health and safety by seeking medical advice and testing if necessary.