Can You Spot an Allergy? Your child's runny nose and sore throat could be due to a cold virus or a seasonal allergy. Here's help telling the two apart.
|
Cold |
Allergy |
Cause |
A virus. |
Reaction to pollen from trees, grass, weeds, and ragweed; mold; and dust mites. |
How Long It lasts |
About 7 Days. |
Symptoms persist or recur every few days; may be worse during the spring and fall. |
Symptoms |
Mild fever; clear, thin, watery nasal mucus that thickens as child improves; slight cough or occasional clearing of throat; sore throat. |
No fever, clear, thin nasal mucus; frequent sneezing; itchy, watery eyes and nose; wet cough that worsens with activity. |
Treatment |
Rest and plenty of fluids; acetaminophen or ibuprofen to relieve sore throat or headache. Go easy on cold remedies- some can cause side effects, and they won't cure a cold any faster. |
Antihistamines to ease symptoms. Take your child to the doctor, who can help identify allergenic substances and offer guidelines on avoiding them. |
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