Sneezing and a runny or stuffy nose are common symptoms of allergies and the common cold. It can be difficult to spot what is causing the symptoms. So it is allergies or a cold? Allergies are caused by the immune system triggering a response after encountering an allergen. Common colds, on the other hand, are viruses. Because each is brought on in a different manner, knowing the difference means providing the proper treatment to get your kids feeling better faster.
Spotting the differences
One of the biggest indicators that you’re dealing with allergies is the timing. Do you notice your child feeling unwell around the same time of the year repeatedly? Seasonal allergies are very common since pollen is one of the most common allergens that can trigger symptoms. Kids on average develop allergies by the time they’re 10 years old. If you feel your child may have allergies but has never experienced any symptoms before, it can still very well be allergies causing their symptoms.
Another way to determine which it is, is the length of time your child feels unwell. Colds last on average for 7-10 days. But allergy symptoms can come and go quickly. This is because your child is not always in environments where they’re exposed to an allergen. For example, your family loves spending lots of time outside on the weekends and you notice your child is only showing symptoms on the weekends. It can indicate that they’re being exposed to the allergen when outside for long periods of time or the allergen is only in the area where you’re consistently spending family time.
Allergies vs Cold Symptoms
Allergies
Sneezing
Runny or stuffy nose
Itchy eyes
Fever
Body aches
Sore throat
Symptoms appear quickly
Symptoms appear gradually
Colds
Sneezing
Runny or stuffy nose
Itchy eyes
Fever
Body aches
Sore throat
Symptoms appear quickly
Symptoms appear gradually
How treatments vary
Since the cause of allergy and cold symptoms are so different, their treatments are as well.
Colds cannot be cured and need to run their course. Kids should get plenty of rest and stay hydrated. Other home remedies for symptom management include honey for sore throats, and humidifiers for congestion. Ibuprofen can be used to manage fever and body aches and other over-the-counter medications like decongestants can help too. Be sure to refer to the medication directions for age requirements and proper dosage.
Allergies may be treated by boosting the immune system with a balanced diet and probiotics. Saline nasal sprays can clear the nasal passages and reduce congestion. Medications like antihistamines, and nasal steroid sprays can also reduce or eliminate the physical response to allergen exposure. For severe allergies, immunotherapy can help with long-term control of symptoms. Allergy tests can also be administered to provide clarity of what is causing the most issues. If you think you’re child has allergies, consult your doctor for guidance on treatment and next steps.
For more information on seasonal allergies, check out our blog Spring Allergies – Causes and Treatments!
Spring Allergies – Causes and Treatments
Spring is a beautiful time of the year when trees bloom and flowers blossom. When all these plants start coming back to life, that means spring allergies are coming back too. Even if your child has never experienced allergy symptoms before, they could develop as they get older. Exposure to allergens can occur for 1-2 seasons before symptoms start to show. This is why allergies…
To wrap up
There are certain times of the year when allergens spike and cold viruses are common. By considering both allergies and colds as possible causes, you will likely reduce a trial-and-error period. This way you can provide the right at-home treatments and have your child feeling better faster.
Sources: Nemours, Mayo Clinic, Medical News Today