Because colds and allergies cause similar symptoms, it’s tricky for many moms to determine if their kids’ sniffles are caused by a cold or allergies. But knowing the difference is important for getting the right treatment. Fortunately, there are some signs to help you tell if it’s a cold or allergies.
To help your child find relief, begin by asking the following questions:
1. What caused the onset?
Colds are caused by hundreds of different viruses, which are spread from person to person. So if a bug’s making the rounds in your child’s school or day care, that’s a clue that a cold is the culprit. It usually takes a few days for symptoms to appear after contact with the virus.
Allergies, on the other hand, are the result of an overzealous immune system. The body mistakes harmless particles -- such as pollen, dust or mold -- as dangerous intruders, releasing chemicals called histamines in response. These inflammatory chemicals set off sneezes, sniffles and watery eyes. Symptoms crop up immediately after exposure to the allergen.
Seasonal allergies generally occur in the fall (when weeds bloom) and in the late spring and early summer (when trees and grasses pollinate). Year-round sniffles are triggered by dust, animal dander and mold. Also keep in mind that allergies run in families: If you suffer from them, your child’s more likely to have the condition too.
2. How long has he or she been sniffling?
Colds can last from two to three days to two weeks, and the symptoms tend to get worse before lessening. With allergies, sniffles can last for months or even years. And they appear when your child is exposed to the allergen.
3. Does your child have a sore throat or fever?
If your child complains that it’s painful to swallow, chances are he’s battling a cold. Other red flags that he’s sick: a fever and body aches.
4. Does he also feel itchy?
Itchy, watery eyes usually signal allergies. That’s because the flood of histamines also affect the eyes.
5. What does your child’s mucus look like?
In most cases, allergies produce thin, watery mucus. Thick mucus, especially mucus with a yellow or greenish tint, usually means that a cold or another infection is at fault.
If your child has a cold, give him plenty of fluids, rest and the appropriate over-the-counter medicines to relieve those symptoms.
Suspect allergies? If your kid is 6 years of age or older, consider a trial of over-the-counter antihistamine. (Younger children should see a health care provider first.) I recommend a nonsedating variety, such as one that contains loratadine, during the day. Before bedtime, a brand with diphenhydramine can ease symptoms and help your child get a good night’s rest.
If he or she is still sniffling after a few weeks, consult your pediatrician. Your kid may need a prescription allergy medication.
