Is it a virus or allergies? If you are feeling under the weather during this time, you may wonder whether you have contracted a virus or are experiencing allergy symptoms. While there are some overlapping symptoms for viruses and allergies, it’s important to know the key differences when determining a course of action for your symptoms.
Allergies vs. Viruses
Allergies are an immune system response to specific allergens, while a virus is a biological entity that relies on a host to thrive and reproduce. Both can be spread through environmental surroundings or touch but looking out for these key symptoms can help differentiate whether it is a virus or allergies.
For allergies, it is important to consider your history with seasonal allergy flare-ups during certain times of the year. Allergy symptoms can include itchy eyes and nose, constant sneezing, and a runny, congested nose. Throat soreness can be present with a runny nose and allergy symptoms can also cause fatigue.
A virus can also present with many of the same symptoms as allergies, but it’s important to look out for whether you are experiencing a fever with those symptoms to determine whether you have a virus. With viruses such as coronavirus, you may also experience shortness of breath, body aches, and chills, nausea or vomiting, or a loss of taste and smell. Generally speaking, allergies will not cause fever and this is a key difference when determining a course of action.
Pay a Visit to Your Doctor
Whether you are experiencing a virus or general seasonal allergies, it’s crucial to pay a visit to a physician or allergist to receive proper treatment for your symptoms. For treatment of viruses, a physician may prescribe an antiviral and recommend you rest at home resting to reduce the chance of spreading the virus. If allergies are the culprit, working with an allergist such as the board-certified allergists at McGovern Allergy & Asthma Clinic can help reduce your allergy flare-ups in the future. Allergy testing to determine what allergens cause a reaction and allergy medications can help reduce symptoms.
Schedule an Appointment
If you are struggling with allergy symptoms and need relief, contact our team at McGovern Allergy and Asthma Clinic today. Call 713-661-1444 to schedule an appointment or click the link to request one online. https://mcgovernallergy.com/request-an-appointment-online/