Did you know the Omicron variant of COVID-19, which is currently the dominant
strain in the United States and our region, can present symptoms very
similar to seasonal allergies? Both share symptoms of sneezing, headache,
fatigue and coughing, but how do you know if it’s routine allergies
or something more serious? Here are three things to consider:
Have you lost your ability to taste or smell?
Not every COVID-19 infection includes a sudden loss of taste and smell,
but this specific symptom has become a good indicator of the illness.
If you experience this bizarre ailment, it’s a good idea to follow
COVID-19 protocols: isolate, get tested and call your primary care provider
for tips on how best to care for yourself.
Do you have a fever?
Lots of illnesses and conditions can cause fever, as it is your immune
system’s way to attack and kill the virus or bacteria that has infected
your body. But if you’re experiencing allergy-like symptoms and
have a fever, it’s time to rule out COVID-19. Take an at-home test
or find a testing location, and minimize your contact with other while
you wait for definitive results.
Are you a seasonal allergy sufferer?
Seasonal allergies can develop over the course of an individual’s
life, especially if you’ve recently moved to an area or region with
different trees, vegetation and air quality than your body is used to.
But if you don’t traditionally suffer from allergies and are having
symptoms like coughing, sneezing, trouble breathing and fatigue, it could
be COVID-19. The Omicron variant is highly contagious, more contagious
than other strains of the virus, and immunity from a previous COVID-19
infection and the highly-effective COVID-19 vaccines can wane over time.
Sudden onset of these symptoms, especially for those who don’t typically
suffer from seasonal allergies, should prompt you to get tested for COVID-19.
CaroMont Urgent Care locations offer telehealth visits, COVID-19 testing
and vaccination, and treatment for non-emergent health concerns. You can
schedule your appointment on our website: https://www.caromonthealth.org/Patients-Visitors/Schedule-an-Appointment.aspx