COVID-19 cases are on the rise, so you may be second-guessing yourself any time you’re feeling a little under the weather. It's important that you contact your primary care provider immediately if you’re experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.
However, COVID-19, allergies, the common cold, and flu share many symptoms — so how are you supposed to know whether you have COVID-19 or something else? Here’s what you should know about their symptoms, causes and how they’re spread.
Allergies
In Louisiana, seasonal allergies can be a year-round battle. Allergy symptoms can be mild to severe and are caused by your body’s immune system overreacting to stimulants in the environment — such as pollen, mold spores, dust or pet dander. Allergies are not contagious and over-the-counter medications can usually relieve your symptoms.
Common Symptoms
Stuffy or runny nose
Post-nasal drip (which can sometimes cause a mild sore throat)
Itchy or watery eyes
Sneezing
Itchy nose or ears
Mild fatigue
The Common Cold
The common cold is a viral infection of the nose and throat that develops after contact with a cold-causing virus. This can be spread through the air or through personal contact. The average timeline of recovery for a common cold is 7 to 10 days and you will typically not need to seek medical attention, as it is relatively harmless. However, see your primary care provider if your symptoms do not improve.
Common Symptoms
Cough
Congestion
Stuffy or runny nose
Sneezing
Sore throat
Body aches and/or headache
Low-grade fever
Mild fatigue
Flu (Influenza)
Flu — or influenza — is a respiratory illness caused by a viral infection. It spreads through respiratory droplets and is very contagious. Because it is spread through respiratory droplets, flu can be spread while talking or through physical contact.
The two types of flu that cause seasonal epidemics in the USA are influenza A and influenza B.
Common Symptoms
Headache and body aches
Cold sweats & chills
Fever
Cough
Sore throat
Stuffy or runny nose
Fatigue
Vomiting & diarrhea (more common in children than adults)
COVID-19
COVID-19 is a viral illness that can spread by sneezing, coughing or physical contact. COVID-19 symptoms usually begin 2 to 14 days after initial exposure and typically subside approximately 14 days after the onset.
It is still possible to get COVID-19 if you have been vaccinated. If you are vaccinated and test positive for COVID-19, your symptoms are expected to be milder.
Common COVID -19 Symptoms
Dry cough
Shortness of breath
Fever
Intense fatigue, body aches
Loss of smell
Headache
Runny nose
Fatigue
Sore throat
Sneezing
Whether you’re experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, a common cold, flu or allergies — we’re here to help. We offer COVID-19 testing and vaccinations, or we can see you for a sick visit if you’re feeling under the weather. Schedule your appointment with Cypress Health + Wellness today!