When you’re not feeling well, you’ll do whatever you can to try and feel better. In order to know what kind of treatment you need, it’s important to be able to identify what condition you’re experiencing. Below we review the causes, symptoms and treatments of allergies, a cold, the flu and COVID-19.
Allergies
Allergies are caused by the immune system overreacting to a substance that is normally harmless. During this reaction, the antibody Immunoglobulin E is produced, which tells the cells to release histamine. Histamine causes inflammation, swelling, itching and mucus production, resulting in symptoms such as:
- Itchy, red, watery or puffy eyes
- Itchy, runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Scratchy throat
- Postnasal drip
- Cough
- Rash or hives
Allergy symptoms occur immediately following exposure to an allergen. To find relief, you can take an antihistamine or a decongestant. For long-term treatment, talk to your allergist about immunotherapy.
The Common Cold
The common cold is caused by a virus, usually from a family of viruses called the rhinoviruses. Symptoms of the cold include:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Sore throat
- Postnasal drip
- Cough
- Fever (rarely)
Cold symptoms usually peak within two to three days and last up to seven to ten days. The cold can be treated with an over-the-counter cold/flu medication from EssentialRx as well as rest and hydration.
The Flu
The flu is caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat and lungs. Symptoms include:
- Headache
- Body aches
- Fatigue
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
- Fever or chills
Flu symptoms typically come on suddenly and can last from a few days to a few weeks. Like with a cold, the flu is also treated with rest/hydration and an OTC cold/flu medication.
COVID-19
Symptoms of COVID-19 occur within two to fourteen days of exposure to the virus and include:
- New loss of taste or smell
- Headache
- Body aches
- Fatigue
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
- Fever or chills
If you suspect you have COVID-19, it’s important to self-isolate and get tested right away. Follow your health care provider’s instructions on how to care for yourself if you test positive. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call ENT Associates of Worcester today.