Many wonder if allergy medications are safe to take when experiencing symptoms that might be related to COVID-19. The overlap in symptoms between seasonal allergies and viral infections often leads to this question. This guidance clarifies how to manage allergy symptoms during such times.
Differentiating Allergy Symptoms from COVID-19
Distinguishing between allergy and COVID-19 symptoms can be challenging due to shared manifestations. Seasonal allergies present with itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion. Itchiness, especially in the eyes, indicates allergies and is not usually associated with COVID-19 or the common cold. Allergy symptoms last for weeks or months, depending on allergen exposure, and respond to allergy medications.
COVID-19 often includes fever, body aches, fatigue, sore throat, and a cough. While a runny or stuffy nose can occur with both, fever and muscle aches characterize COVID-19 and are absent with allergies. A significant loss of taste or smell is more indicative of COVID-19, though a slight decrease can occur with allergies or colds. A fever of 100°F or higher points towards an infection, not allergies.
Safe Allergy Medications to Consider
Certain allergy medications are safe to use even if you have COVID-19 or suspect an infection. Non-drowsy antihistamines like loratadine (Claritin), fexofenadine (Allegra), and cetirizine (Zyrtec) are recommended. These block histamine H1 receptors, reducing common allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and runny nose. They are well-tolerated and do not cause significant drowsiness, making them less likely to mask COVID-19 fatigue.
Nasal corticosteroids, such as fluticasone (Flonase) and budesonide (Rhinocort), are another safe option. These sprays work locally in the nasal passages to reduce inflammation. They have minimal systemic absorption, making them appropriate for use and unlikely to interfere with COVID-19 symptoms or treatment. Continuing these medications helps control allergy symptoms, which is important.
Allergy Medications to Use with Caution or Avoid
Some allergy medications require caution or avoidance if you have COVID-19. Oral decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) and phenylephrine, constrict blood vessels to reduce nasal swelling. These can increase heart rate and blood pressure, posing risks for individuals with underlying heart conditions or hypertension. Their use could exacerbate symptoms like increased heart rate, which may also be present with a COVID-19 infection.
Nasal decongestant sprays containing oxymetazoline (Afrin) should be used cautiously for a maximum of three days to prevent rebound congestion. Sedating antihistamines, like diphenhydramine (Benadryl), cause significant drowsiness. This drowsiness could obscure or worsen COVID-19 fatigue, making it harder to assess your condition. Discuss these medications with a healthcare provider, as they interact with many medical conditions.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
Seek medical advice when experiencing new or worsening symptoms. If you develop severe COVID-19 symptoms like difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, new confusion, or inability to wake or stay awake, immediate medical attention is necessary. These symptoms indicate a serious condition that requires prompt evaluation.
Consult a healthcare professional if you have underlying health conditions, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, or asthma, which could be complicated by COVID-19 or certain medications. They can provide personalized guidance on appropriate medication choices and symptom management. If uncertain whether your symptoms are due to allergies or COVID-19, or which medication is suitable, contact your doctor for advice.