Sha-Rhonda Morton, D.O., with Utica Park Clinic has practiced family medicine since 2009. With people getting outside more frequently and allergies increasing during springtime, Morton shared her expertise on recognizing the difference between allergies or COVID-19 symptoms in this Q&A.
Q: What are some common symptoms associated with allergies rather than COVID-19?
A: Itchy nose, itchy eyes, itchy inner ears and sneezing.
Q: What are some common symptoms associated with COVID-19 rather than allergies?
A: Fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
Q: What are some of the key differences in determining if a person would be suffering from allergies and COVID-19?
A: If an individual has the common COVID symptoms, a COVID viral test would be the recommended method of determining if he/she has COVID. An allergist can determine if an individual has allergies using a skin prick test.
Q: Does having allergies increase the risk of contracting COVID-19?
A: According to the CDC, there is not enough scientific information, at this time, to know whether having seasonal allergies puts you at increased risk of contracting COVID-19.
Q: With warmer weather on the horizon, people getting outside more frequently during the spring season and increased availability of the COVID-19 vaccine, what are your tips for people to improve their chances of remaining healthy during the spring?
A: I recommend everyone do their own research and if the vaccine is right for you, please take it. I also recommend continued hand washing and maintaining safe distance from those you don’t know.
Q: If someone starts to show any of the symptoms mentioned above, what would be your advice?
A: Please contact you doctor for further advice and possible clinical evaluation.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 918-392-7500 or visit our virtual care page at https://uticaparkclinic.com/virtualcare.