"Achoo!" and Sharp Glances... Allergic Rhinitis Mistaken for COVID-19

[Photo by Gangdong Kyung Hee University Hospital]

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] As the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) pandemic prolongs, patients with allergic rhinitis are suffering from harsh stares around them. This is because symptoms such as sneezing and runny nose often lead to misunderstandings that they are COVID-19 positive.

According to the medical community on the 9th, allergic rhinitis, which worsens during the spring and autumn transitional seasons, has different main symptoms from COVID-19. Allergic rhinitis is a condition in which the nasal mucosa overreacts to specific substances, causing allergy symptoms such as a runny nose.

Allergic rhinitis and COVID-19 can be distinguished by the presence or absence of fever. Allergic rhinitis does not cause fever. It is characterized by two or more of the following symptoms lasting more than one hour a day: △clear runny nose △paroxysmal sneezing △nasal congestion △nasal itching.

On the other hand, COVID-19’s main symptoms include a high fever of 38.5 degrees Celsius or higher and a dry cough. It may also be accompanied by headaches, runny nose symptoms, and in severe cases, difficulty breathing.

Professor Lee Geon-hee of the Department of Otorhinolaryngology at Kangdong Kyung Hee University Hospital emphasized, "It is important to detect allergic rhinitis early, actively treat it, and simultaneously maintain consistent lifestyle management."

◇Health Guidelines for Preventing Allergic Rhinitis in Daily Life

1. Avoid exposure not only to direct smoking but also to secondhand smoke.

2. Since viral nasal diseases such as colds and flu can trigger or worsen allergic rhinitis symptoms, thorough hand washing is essential.

3. Keep indoor spaces clean to prevent the breeding of house dust mites.

4. Maintain an appropriate temperature and avoid sudden temperature changes caused by heating and cooling devices.

5. Refrain from going outside on days with severe fine dust or pollen, and wear a mask.

6. Manage consistently with effective and verified treatment methods to prevent complications such as asthma, sinusitis, and otitis media.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.