Contents
Allergist Sergei Bykov compared the symptoms of the diseases.
Allergologist (immunologist), candidate of medical sciences
Against the background of general attention to the coronavirus, one should not forget about other diseases with symptoms that are quite similar to COVID. Among them – allergies, its surge occurs in May-June, because this is the period of flowering plants.
The patient becomes more sensitive to the allergen gradually. Symptoms come on suddenly and can be bothersome for months. The disease is not contagious, its essence is in the increased reaction of the immune system to completely harmless substances, which the body suddenly perceives as a danger, developing means of struggle, including histamine. Allergies can make themselves felt at any age. Therefore, beginners should not panic and diagnose COVID-19.
Special features
The main difference, to which you should pay attention, is that with hay fever, the symptoms increase only upon contact with the allergen. With COVID-19, they tend to worsen without external causes. Additional distinction the disease is the seasonal recurrence of clinical manifestations and the relief of allergic manifestations when prescribing antihistamines. Signs can vary, but here are the main ones:
If you have a fever with a cough or pain in the body and throat, a feeling of congestion in the chest, you should immediately consult a doctor.
Rules of life for allergies
The suddenness and nature of the symptoms of hay fever, their duration and seasonality are taken into account by a specialist. He selects adequate therapy with appropriate preventive recommendations. If the disease made itself felt before, in case of its aggravation, start medicationalready recommended by your doctor.
Allergy affects about a third of the world’s population.
Download to your smartphone special application for allergy sufferers… If the pollen index is higher than 5, do not go outside. You cannot do without this – choose hours when the sun is not too active, ultraviolet light contributes to the pollination process. For protection use glasses and a mask, especially since the latter is now mandatory.
Returning to the apartment, immediately wash your hands and face, but better take a shower. Put your outer clothing and shoes in a closed cabinet. Do not forget about protecting your home: do wet cleaning as often as possible. Ventilate the room, but leave the room.
Important: remember that people with hay fever are at risk for coronavirus. Allergies cause so-called sterile, that is, non-infectious, inflammation, which can reduce the protection of the airways. Therefore, you must respond to seasonal symptoms immediately.