March 30, 2017
Spring is here and so are allergies but how do you know your child’s runny nose is from allergies instead of a cold?
Colds are caused by a viral infection, while allergies are caused by your immune system overreacting to harmless substances. Several of the symptoms are the same for colds and allergies, however there are a few differences that may give you a clue to the true culprit.
- Length of symptoms. Colds last 1-2 weeks while allergy symptoms can go on for weeks or months.
- You will not get a fever, chills, or body aches with allergies, however these are common symptoms of colds.
- A common symptom of allergies is itching: itching skin, itching eyes, itching throat, and itchy nose. This does not occur with a cold.
- Colds tend to develop thicker nasal secretions, while allergies tend to have clear watery discharge.
Understanding the differences can help you decide what steps to take to give your child the right treatment they need!
This is the 2nd part in a 4 part allergy series, be sure to follow for more!
By Sarah Giomi, Communications Intern and Bill Bomberger, PA-C
