Many people across the UK are suffering with hay fever due to warmer weather leading to higher pollen counts.
At the same time, the common cold is also doing the rounds, and people are still contracting coronavirus. As the illnesses often have similar symptoms, it can be difficult to know which ailment you are suffering from.
However, there are a few significant warning signs to look out for that could give an indication as to precisely what you are dealing with.
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Loss of taste and smell is a common red flag indicating a possible coronavirus infection, although some studies suggest it is now less common. The NHS also says a high temperature or shivering, and a new, continuous cough, are commonly reported signs of covid. It also lists the following symptoms on its website:
- shortness of breath
- feeling tired or exhausted
- an aching body
- a headache
- a sore throat
- a blocked or runny nose
- loss of appetite
- diarrhoea
- feeling sick or being sick
Common cold symptoms
Colds are commonly thought of as a less severe precursor to the flu, resulting in blocked noses, sore throats, headaches, muscle aches, coughs, sneezing, a raised temperature, and pressure in your ears and face. These illnesses usually don't require a trip to the doctor, and can be treated with bed-rest, over-the-counter painkillers and plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
Hay fever symptoms
Hay fever causes itchiness of the nose, throat, and eyes, but there are a number of lesser-known symptoms. These include a loss of taste or smell, as can be seen in covid, and excessive sweating.
Lloyds Pharmacy Online Doctor, Rumeet Patel, also said hay fever can cause headaches and migraines, as well as facial pain, due to sinus inflammation. Those with asthma may also find their symptoms, such as wheezing and breathlessness, worsen with hay fever.
If you think you may have covid, NHS advises you "try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people if you or your child have symptoms and either:
- have a high temperature
- do not feel well enough to go to work, school, childcare, or do your normal activities".
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