Seasonal allergy symptoms may be concerning because of widespread COVID-19 cases, especially for people with heart disease.

Here are common symptoms to help distinguish between allergies and COVID-19.

Allergy symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. Allergy symptoms may also include a cough.  Learn more about common allergy symptoms at the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.

Some of the common COVID-19 symptoms include a fever, shortness of breath, cough, and more. Visit the Center for Disease Control’s website for the most current list of symptoms.

When looking for allergy relief, people with heart disease should be careful even with over the counter medications. Decongestants may raise blood pressure, so antihistamines may provide safer allergy relief. Talk to your health care provider about what over-the-counter allergy medicines would be safe for you.

Read more from the American Heart Association about heart health, allergies and COVID-19.