Is It Allergies Or COVID-19? Our Doctor's Advice On Allergies During The Pandemic (Photo) -04/14/21

PORTLAND, Oregon (April 14, 2021): Spring allergy season has arrived in the Northwest, and all that sniffling and sneezing in the midst of the pandemic has many people worrying and wondering how to tell the difference between symptoms of allergies and COVID-19.

Allergies affect more than 50 million Americans each year, and it can be complicated to distinguish between symptoms of allergies, coronavirus or even a common cold, as many of the symptoms overlap. But there are several symptoms more closely associated with COVID-19 that you can watch for. 

“As the weather gets warmer and drier, trees, grasses and weeds release pollen into the air to fertilize other plants,” said Dr. Mark Chan, Allergy and Immunology Specialist with Kaiser Permanente in Portland, Ore. “When the tiny particles enter the nose of someone who's allergic, the body's defenses kick in and create an allergic reaction. Those symptoms can overlap symptoms of coronavirus or a cold, but there are clues to help you determine the difference."

There also are measures you can take to help reduce your spring allergy symptoms, such as closing your windows, changing your clothes when you come in from outdoors, and - pro tip - wearing your mask will help prevent allergies and reduce your risk of contracting COVID-19 at the same time.

Dr. Chan offers expert advice on how to reduce your spring allergies, which symptoms are common and which are more worrisome, and when you should speak to your health care provider. 

Interviews available:
Mark Chan, MD, Allergy and Immunology Specialist with Kaiser Permanente in Portland, Ore., is available for Zoom or phone  interviews on Wednesday, April 14 and Thursday, April 15.

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