With seasonal allergies, flu, and COVID-19 beginning to circulate at the same time, figuring out your symptoms — and knowing when to see a doctor — can be challenging. Because respiratory illnesses share common symptoms like a stuffy nose or sore throat, understanding what you are dealing with is key.
Knowing the differences and similarities can help you prevent spreading illnesses to your family and friends.
Symptoms respiratory viruses (flu, COVID, RSV, etc.) share:
- Fever or chills
- Headache, muscle, or body aches
- Stuffy nose
- Runny nose or congestion
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Chest discomfort
Symptoms that differentiate the flu:
- More severe
- Can last up to two to three weeks
- High fever
- More intense muscle and body aches
- Severe exhaustion
- Loss of appetite
- Quick onset of symptoms
Symptoms that differentiate allergies:
- Itchy throat
- Itchy or runny nose
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Blocked ears
- Sneezing
- Slightly elevated body temperature (but not fever)
If you experience symptoms, visit an ARC primary care doctor or advanced practice clinician (APC) to get tested and determine what treatment works best for you.
If you can't get into the office and are concerned about symptoms, ARC's NormanMD on-demand virtual urgent care can help you decide the next best step, recommend effective over-the-counter treatment, and in some cases, provide a prescription (fees may apply).
Any ARC doctor or APC can recommend testing and medications or refer you to an ARC Allergy and Asthma specialist if needed. Allergy specialists recommend allergy testing and prescribe medications, such as allergy shots or allergy drops, to help alleviate your symptoms.
To schedule an appointment with an ARC physician or APC: