Spring Allergies or COVID-19?

It’s spring—the flowers are blooming, the trees are lush and green… and we’re in the middle of a global pandemic. This spring’s allergy season has been particularly bad in New England, which means you might be reaching for the tissues more often than past years.

If every sniffle and sneeze has you worried that you may have caught COVID-19, you should know the difference between harmless-but-annoying spring allergies in Newton, MA versus COVID-19 and influenza. Being able to determine whether you have cause for concern will help you relax and enjoy the great outdoors without wondering if every congestion-related cough means you should head to the emergency room.

The difference between allergies, COVID-19 and the flu

The one thing these three afflictions have in common is that they all make you feel under the weather. However, they actually have somewhat different symptoms:

• Spring allergies: Spring allergies in Newton, MA usually present as itchy eyes, nose and skin, with coughing, sneezing, runny nose and congestion. If your illness gets worse whenever you go outside, and only started when temperatures rose and flowers started to bloom, it’s likely allergies.
• COVID-19: COVID-19, the novel coronavirus, is a viral illness that manifests in a fever over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, a dry cough, shortness of breath and fatigue. You may experience severe chest pain along with the shortness of breath. While most people recover from COVID-19, about 1 in 6 with the illness become seriously ill. If you’re presenting COVID-19 symptoms, contact your medical care provider. If the symptoms are extreme, go to the emergency room.
• The flu: Influenza, commonly known as the flu, generally spreads during the cold winter months. The symptoms are very similar to COVID-19, but the time of year makes it less likely to be a concern. Flu symptoms include fever, runny nose, cough, fatigue, body aches, sore throat and headache.

How to cope with spring allergies in Newton, MA

If you’re dealing with spring allergies, you might be tempted to cut down all the vegetation in sight—but a few adjustments to your routine can make a difference. Try taking a shower before you go to bed, to wash off any pollen that’s collected on your hair, clothes and skin during the day. Since pollen counts are higher in the morning, try to limit your outdoor activity then. HEPA filters in air purifiers and your vacuum are also helpful for keeping indoor pollen at a minimum.

Even though the weather is great, keep your windows and doors closed to prevent pollen from blowing in, and wash and change your bedding frequently.

If nothing else, look on the bright side: the face masks many of us are wearing due to the pandemic might help prevent you from breathing in more allergens.

When you need assistance with tree maintenance, including pruning and removal, call BBD Tree Service. Since 2000, our locally owned and operated company has been helping Newton-area tree owners keep their trees looking great and healthy all year long. We also offer 24/7 on-call emergency services. Call us today for a free estimate and to schedule your appointment.

Categorised in: Spring Allergies

This post was written by Writer