COVID-19 vs. allergies: The difference between symptoms
Dr. Guido Macchiavello, medical director for Internal Medicine Ambulatory Services at St. Barnabas Hospital, says there are distinct differences between allergies and COVID-19. Most people with allergies, he says, know their triggers.
News 12 Staff
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Apr 2, 2021, 3:50 PM
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Updated 1,126 days ago
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247ds agoSpring is making way for allergens in the air. With COVID-19 still a concern, sniffles and sneezes still give many people pause.
Dr. Guido Macchiavello, medical director for Internal Medicine Ambulatory Services at St. Barnabas Hospital, says there are distinct differences between allergies and COVID-19. Most people with allergies, he says, know their triggers.
"Maybe that is pollen from all the blooming, or pet dander. Take notice if that might be the cause for how you feel," he said. "And be sure to take notice of what your symptoms are."
He also points out a fever does not come with an allergy.
"With COVID, if you are symptomatic ... you are feeling ill," Macchiavello said. "You have body aches; you have a loss of taste, which is not really common in allergies."
Respiratory allergies commonly have symptoms such as stuffy nose and sneezing, whereas in COVID, a cough can be present, Macchiavello said.
Bottom line -- if there is doubt, get tested.
"If you feel that you could potentially have been exposed to someone with COVID and you have the symptoms, you are not doing wrong by getting tested," he says.
