Spring is here in full swing...along with our little ones being covered in mud and we are going through tissues very rapidly. I know as a mom I have always wondered if the stuffy noses, congestion and sneezes were allergies or were they coming down with a cold. The common cold and allergies can have similar symptoms, including runny noses, watery eyes, cough and congestion. This makes it difficult for parents to know whether it is an allergy or battling a virus.
A cold is a virus that must run its course. Over-the-counter medications, approved by your child's doctor, may help to relieve some of the symptoms. The cold will generally stick around for 7-10 days before it passes. Allergies, on the other hand, will continue as long as the child is exposed to the cause of the allergic reaction.
Here is a checklist of some things they may help you determine if your child has allergies or just a cold:
- Have the symptoms been around for more than 2 weeks?
- Is the mucus clear (not yellow or green)?
- Is there a chronic (continual) cough?
- Are his/her eyes red and itchy?
- Does your child have a stuffy nose or breathe through his/her mouth?
- Does your child have dark circles under his/her eyes?
If your child has one or more of the above symptoms, there is a chance that it is an allergy. Common allergens include food, medications, pet dander, mold, dust, pollen, plants. Depending on the allergen your child could experience skin reactions, respiratory reactions or digestive problems. Nasal allergies tend to make children have more frequent ear and sinus infections.
Your physician can help determine the source of the allergies and give recommendations to help with this. Some tips to reduce common allergens in your home are:
- Wash all bedding in hot water to remove dust and kill bacteria
- Vacuum your home at least once a week and consider purchasing a HEPA vacuum
- Have pets bathed regularly to keep pet dander at a minimum
- Replace furnace and air filters every 1-2 months especially during peak allergy seasons
- Wash blankets, stuffed animals and other toys regularly to remove dust and bacteria
Written by: Kristi Boulware
I started as a Preschool Teacher for about 8 years and then moved up through management to be a very successful School Director. Most recently with Childrens Lighthouse Learning Center's McKinney location. I have since been moved to the Home Office of Childrens Lighthouse as the Social Media Consultant. You can find more information about us at http://www.childrenslighthouse.com/.
