As the seasons shift, it can be harder to distinguish between the symptoms of the common cold, Covid-19, the flu and allergies, since all can have similar symptoms. This can lead to confusion as to when to seek medical care.
Covid-19 is caused by SARS-CoV-2, and the flu comes from a strain of the influenza virus. The common cold most often is caused by rhinoviruses.
These viruses all spread in similar ways - by tiny particles that originate from the lips and nose when a person sneezes, coughs or touches a surface.
The most common symptoms of Covid-19 are fever, cough and tiredness. But there are many other possible signs and symptoms, which may include sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting. Most colds will not include diarrhea, nausea or vomiting. And fever is rare with the common cold.
Allergies, on the other hand, are not caused by a virus but rather by immune system responses triggered by exposure to allergens, such as seasonal tree or grass pollens.
Sneezing and runny noses are two symptoms of allergies. Itchy skin, a scratchy nose or eyes, and tearing eyes also might potentially be symptoms of an allergy.
Timing of your symptoms and duration can help you determine what is ailing you. While Covid-19 symptoms generally appear two to 14 days after exposure to the virus, symptoms of a common cold usually appear one to three days after exposure to a cold-causing virus.
And as far as duration, typically, a cold or virus will run over 10 days to two weeks. Many patients who have been recently diagnosed with Covid-19 are continuing to report symptoms that last weeks and months.
If you know you have allergies, the best way to prevent issues is to avoid your known triggers. If you're allergic to pollen, stay inside with windows and doors closed when there's a lot of pollen in the air. If you've been outside, take a cool shower and change clothes. Allergies usually abate when you avoid a trigger and take medications, such as antihistamines or nasal sprays.
If you are experiencing certain symptoms, however, such as a cough that lingers or congestion and sinus pain, it may be worthwhile to connect with your doctor to rule out whether you may have another condition, such as a sinus infection or bronchitis. Seek immediate medical attention if you are coughing up blood, experiencing pain or have shortness of breath.
Mayo Clinic News Network (TNS)
