COVID, cold or allergy - how to accurately distinguish symptoms

The article explains how to distinguish symptoms of COVID-19, the common cold, and seasonal allergies, based on data from the Cleveland Clinic. Key differences are described: fever and chills are more common with viral infections, itchy eyes with allergies, and a wet cough with a cold. It emphasizes that no single symptom is a reliable diagnostic criterion and recommends COVID-19 testing.

Based on data from the Cleveland Clinic, this article helps readers differentiate between symptoms of COVID-19, the common cold, and allergies. Common manifestations are described: runny nose, cough, sore throat, headache, and fatigue. Key differences: fever and chills are more common with viral infections (COVID-19 and cold), itching and tearing eyes with allergies, and a wet cough with phlegm with a cold. Loss of taste and smell may indicate COVID-19 but can also occur with severe nasal congestion. Allergies last longer (weeks or months) upon contact with an allergen, while a cold resolves in 7-10 days. The article emphasizes that no single symptom is a reliable diagnostic criterion and recommends COVID-19 testing. To alleviate symptoms, rest, plenty of fluids, antihistamines, and saline nasal rinses are suggested. Vaccination is recommended to reduce the risk of severe COVID-19. If symptoms worsen, a doctor should be consulted.