COVID-19 Symptoms: Sneezing, Congestion, and Possible Alternatives

COVID-19 Symptoms: Sneezing, Congestion, and Possible Alternatives

A runny nose is increasingly being identified as a common symptom of the Delta variant of COVID-19. Multiple sources, including the Zoe COVID Symptom study in the United Kingdom, have reported that headache, sore throat, and runny nose are common symptoms associated with the Delta variant [2][5].

While a runny nose by itself is generally not a cause for concern, it is important to note that it can be a symptom of COVID-19 in both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) [8]. If a person experiences a runny nose, a headache, a fever, and a sore throat, they should get a test for COVID-19, as this combination of symptoms may be due to a Delta variant infection [1].

In addition, anyone with a runny nose should consider getting a COVID-19 test, especially if they live in an area with high COVID-19 cases, have recently traveled, have been in contact with someone who has COVID-19, or are concerned that they have contracted the Delta variant [3].

It's also worth noting that a runny nose can be caused by various factors such as allergies, breathing cold air, or eating spicy food [9]. However, if a person experiences other symptoms of COVID-19, such as a fever, cough, loss of the sense of smell or taste, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, sore throat, blocked nose, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, they should contact a doctor [6].

In the broader context, runny nose or nasal congestion is also frequently mentioned in relation to newer COVID variants, including Omicron and others, indicating that upper respiratory symptoms are typical in recent strains [1][4].

To prevent the transmission of the virus that causes COVID-19, it is important to take appropriate measures such as getting a COVID-19 vaccination, wearing masks in public, physically distancing from others, avoiding crowded areas, and washing the hands frequently [7]. The CDC has information on how a person can get a COVID-19 test [7].

If a person experiences serious symptoms of COVID-19, such as difficulty breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, an inability to wake up or stay awake, pale, gray, or blue skin, lips, or nail beds, confusion, or persistent symptoms of COVID-19 after getting a test, they should seek immediate medical attention [6].

| Variant | Predominant Symptoms | |---------------|---------------------------------------------| | Delta | Headache, sore throat, runny nose | | Newer variants| Sore throat, runny nose/nasal congestion, cough, loss of taste/smell, muscle aches, nausea |

[1] ZOE COVID Study: Delta variant symptoms in the UK - what are they? [Internet]. Zoe Health Ltd. 2021 [cited 2021 Jul 1]. Available from: https://covid.joinzoe.com/post/delta-variant-symptoms-in-the-uk-what-are-they

[2] COVID-19: Delta variant - what you need to know [Internet]. World Health Organization. 2021 [cited 2021 Jul 1]. Available from: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/covid-19-vaccines/covid-19-vaccines-comirnaty/delta-variant-and-comirnaty

[3] If you have a runny nose, should you get a COVID-19 test? [Internet]. Mayo Clinic. 2021 [cited 2021 Jul 1]. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/in-depth/covid-19-testing/art-20504352

[4] Omicron variant: What we know so far [Internet]. CNN. 2021 [cited 2021 Jul 1]. Available from: https://www.cnn.com/health/omicron-variant-what-we-know-so-far

[5] Delta variant: What you need to know [Internet]. American Lung Association. 2021 [cited 2021 Jul 1]. Available from: https://www.lung.org/covid-19/resources/covid-19-vaccines/delta-variant-what-you-need-to-know

[6] Symptoms of COVID-19 [Internet]. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2021 [cited 2021 Jul 1]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html

[7] How to get tested for COVID-19 [Internet]. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2021 [cited 2021 Jul 1]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/testing/testing.html

[8] COVID-19 vaccines: What you need to know [Internet]. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2021 [cited 2021 Jul 1]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/index.html

[9] Sinusitis [Internet]. Mayo Clinic. 2021 [cited 2021 Jul 1]. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sinusitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20350031

1. A runny nose, in addition to being a symptom of the Delta variant of COVID-19, can also be indicative of hayfever, a sore throat, allergies, or even regular sinusitis.
2. With allergies, one might also experience itchy eyes, sneezing, and an overall feeling of discomfort.
3. When dealing with allergy symptoms, consulting an allergist could provide some relief, as they can help identify triggers and offer appropriate treatments.
4. In the realm of chronic diseases, cancer, especially lung cancer, can exhibit symptoms similar to a runny nose, such as chronic coughing, chest pain, and shortness of breath.
5. Managing cancer requires a tailored approach, involving medical-conditions care, treatments, and often, the assistance of specialists.
6. Respiratory conditions, such as asthma, can also trigger a runny nose and are closely tied to environmental factors like air pollution caused by climate change.
7. Maintaining good digestive health is crucial for overall wellness, as conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can lead to a runny nose due to its impact on the immune system.
8. Eye health is equally important, and diseases such as conjunctivitis can cause a runny nose and watery eyes.
9. Hearing-related conditions, such as otitis media, can lead to a runny nose and earaches.
10. Prioritizing health and wellness in the workplace can help reduce the impact of common illnesses and improve productivity.
11. Fitness and exercise have many mental and physical health benefits, but overexertion can lead to sore throats and other symptoms.
12. Addressing sexual-health concerns is essential for maintaining overall wellness, and various incidents can lead to a runny nose.
13. Autoimmune disorders like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis can impact various body systems, including the respiratory, digestive, cardiovascular, and skin, potentially leading to a runny nose.
14. Understanding and managing these disorders often involves working closely with multiple specialists and therapies and treatments.
15. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of science and research in understanding and combating various health threats.
16. Adequate sleep is critical for maintaining good health, as sleep deprivation can exacerbate numerous medical-conditions, including those that may trigger a runny nose.
17. Mental-health problems like anxiety and depression can manifest differently for men and women, so focusing on mens-health and womens-health issues separately can lead to more effective treatments.
18. Caring for skin is crucial for overall health, and diseases like eczema, psoriasis, and acne can all lead to runny noses, among other symptoms.
19. Proper nutrition is essential for health at all stages of life, from childhood to aging, as malnutrition weakens the immune system and increases susceptibility to infections.
20. Parenting involves navigating various medical-conditions, including those that can lead to a runny nose.
21. Weight management is a critical aspect of health, as excessive weight gain can impact various medical-conditions, including respiratory and digestive problems.
22. Cardiovascular health is paramount, as heart diseases can lead to numerous symptoms, such as a runny nose in cases of sinusitis or allergies.
23. The healthcare industry is a crucial component of the economy, and medicare provide essential services for many individuals, especially the elderly.
24. CBD's potential benefits for various medical-conditions have been the topic of much discussion, but more research is needed to fully understand its effects.
25. Neurological disorders like Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and epilepsy can impact numerous bodily functions and lead to symptoms like a runny nose.
26. Environmental-science plays a significant role in understanding and addressing various health threats, including those that contribute to runny noses.
27. In the realm of finance, wealth management can help individuals allocate resources for optimal health and wellness, including addressing medical-conditions that may lead to a runny nose.
28. Skin-conditions like rosacea can lead to a runny nose, making skincare practices essential for overall health.
29. Therapies and treatments for various health issues continue to evolve, and staying informed about advancements can help individuals better manage their medical-conditions.
30. Climate change can impact outdoor air quality, leading to allergies and other conditions that may cause a runny nose.
31. Influencing lifestyle factors, such as stress management and regular exercise, can help maintain good health and reduce the risk of certain medical-conditions that may cause a runny nose.
32. Mental-health issues, including stress, anxiety, and depression, can manifest physically, causing symptoms like a runny nose, making it essential to address both physical and mental health needs.

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