In many parts of the U.S., spring is in full bloom, and with the arrival of spring comes an increase in seasonal allergies and now questions about increased risk related to COVID-19.

“Currently, there is no data to substantiate those patients with allergies and asthma are at an increased risk for COVID-19, and there’s nothing in the literature to suggest that COVID-19 affects these people differently,” said Dr. Arveen Bhasin, a Mayo Clinic allergy and immunology specialist.

Allergies, which affect millions of people, occur when a person’s immune system reacts to a foreign substance such as pollen, pet dander or certain foods. Asthma is a condition that causes airways to narrow and swell and produce extra mucus.

“Allergies in particular are very different from COVID-19 with respect to the sudden onset and symptoms of COVID-19,” Bhasin said. Typical seasonal allergy symptoms include itchy, watery eyes; itchy, runny nose; sneezing; nasal congestion; and postnasal drip.

“COVID-19 is going to cause symptoms of fever, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing and potentially some GI upset. Allergies don’t cause those symptoms,” Bhasin said.

Though asthma can make breathing difficult and trigger coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath, Bhasin said most patients would recognize an attack and, again, not have a fever.

“Patients should be aware of their asthma triggers, maximize hand hygiene and minimize social interactions,” she said.

Her recommendation for patients with allergies or asthma is to continue with their usual treatment plan. To help manage allergy symptoms, Bhasin recommends a change of scenery and over-the-counter medication.

“With seasonal pollen allergies, for instance, you may find that your symptoms improve if you go indoors and decrease your exposure. Over-the-counter antihistamines can also help,” she said. Also, continue to use inhalers and nasal sprays.

“There’s been some concern about whether steroids increase the likelihood of either contracting the virus or spreading the virus, and there is no literature to substantiate that,” Bhasin said.

“There are also no concerns we’ve been able to identify regarding nasal sprays or saline irrigation. The recommendations are to continue.”

For effectiveness, Bhasin said, make certain you’re using nasal sprays properly, and wipe the nozzle down after each use. “And do not share your nasal sprays with anybody else in the household.”

Bhasin’s top tips for asthmatic patients are:

Make sure you receive an influenza vaccination.

Continue your asthma medications.

Maintain social distancing.

If you are sick or you have concerns that you may have contracted COVID-19, Basin said you should contact your health care provider.