“We know this can be a worrying time for everyone and with tree pollen beginning to affect hay fever sufferers, there’s no better time to get clued up on recognising the different symptoms you might have,” pharmacist Marc Donovan told The Sun.
“Some people may mistake hay fever symptoms for a cold or flu and during the current pandemic, may also mistake them for coronavirus.”
The three most common signs of COVID-19 are:
- A dry cough
- A high temperature
- Shortness of breath
Meanwhile, aches and pains, sore throat, loss of taste or smell and a runny nose have also been reported as symptoms in patients.
On the other hand, hay fever can trigger a vast range of reactions from the body. According to Mayo Clinic, symptoms include:
- Runny nose and nasal congestion
- Watery, itchy, red eyes (allergic conjunctivitis)
- Sneezing
- Cough
- Itchy nose, roof of mouth or throat
- Swollen, blue-coloured skin under the eyes (allergic shiners)
- Postnasal drip
- Fatigue
“If your mucus is clear, thin and watery it is more likely to be hay fever,” allergy expert Max Wiseberg explained. “And although it is called hay fever, a fever is unusual, whereas it is possible with coronavirus.”
“Despite its name, hay fever is not contagious, whereas the coronavirus is – another reason for determining which one you are suffering from.”
“To help prevent the spread of coronavirus, it’s important to avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth and wash hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.”
