Allergies in Children: Is It a Cold or Allergies?

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As a parent, it can be difficult to tell whether your child has a simple cold, or if they are struggling with allergies. The symptoms of both conditions can be quite similar, making it challenging to determine the best course of action. Understanding what causes allergies, recognizing common allergens and knowing treatment options can help keep your child healthy and comfortable.

What Causes Allergies in Children?

Allergies occur when a child's immune system overreacts to substances that are typically harmless to most people. These substances, called allergens, trigger the immune system to release chemicals like histamine, leading to allergy symptoms. There is a genetic link passed from parents and genetic sequence variations that predispose some children to have allergies. Allergies can be seasonal or year-round, depending on the type of allergen causing the reaction.

Common Allergies in Children

Children can develop allergies to a variety of substances, including:

• Seasonal Allergies (Hay Fever): Caused by pollen from trees, grass and weeds. Symptoms are more common during specific seasons.
• Dust Mites: Tiny bugs found in bedding, upholstery and carpets that can cause year-round allergy symptoms..
• Pet Dander Proteins found in the skin flakes, saliva and urine of animals like cats and dogs.
• Mold: Fungi that thrive in damp, humid environments, such as basements and bathrooms.
• Food Allergies: Common triggers include peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, dairy, soy, wheat and shellfish.
• Insect Stings: Bee, wasp and fire ant stings can cause allergic reactions in some children.
• Irritants: Cigarette smoke, perfumes, car exhaust exposure can trigger symptoms.
• Certain Medications: Some children may be allergic to antibiotics or other medications.

Cold vs. Allergies: How to Tell the Difference

Because cold and allergy symptoms overlap, it can be tough to distinguish between the two. Here are some key differences:

Symptom	Common Cold	Allergies
Runny or Stuffy Nose	Yes	Yes
Sneezing	Yes	Yes
Coughing	Yes	Sometimes
Fever	Sometimes	No
Itchy, Watery, Red Eyes	No	Yes
Duration	7-10 days	Weeks to months if exposed to allergens

If your child experiences persistent or seasonal symptoms without a fever, allergies may be the cause rather than a cold. Skin rashes or hives and stomach upset after eating certain foods are symptoms of allergies.

What You Can Do at Home to Reduce Allergen Exposure

One of the most effective ways to manage symptoms is to prevent exposure to allergens. Here are some things to do at home:

• Air Filters: HEPA filters used in your home’s ventilation system and vacuum cleaner capture more allergens than other types of filters.
• Allergy-Proof the Bed: Allergen-proof pillowcases and mattress covers help prevent exposure to dust mites.
• Close Windows: Keep windows closed, particularly when pollen counts are high.
• Keep Pets Out of the Bedroom: Reduce overnight exposure to pet dander.

How Goldsboro Pediatrics Treats Allergies in Children

Goldsboro Pediatrics is committed to helping families manage allergies effectively. Our pediatricians provide a range of treatments tailored to your child's specific needs, including:

• Medication Management: Depending on the severity of the allergies, we may recommend antihistamines, nasal sprays or other medications to control symptoms.
• Referrals: We can refer your child to an allergist for testing
• Allergy Prevention Strategies: Our team will guide you on how to minimize exposure to allergens at home and in school settings.
• Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots): For children with severe allergies, allergy shots may help build resistance over time.
• Asthma Management: Since allergies and asthma are often linked, we also provide asthma treatment plans for children affected by both conditions.

When to See a Doctor

If your child has persistent allergy symptoms that interfere with daily life, frequent sinus infections or difficulty breathing, it’s time to schedule an appointment with Goldsboro Pediatrics.

Our experienced pediatricians will work with you to create a personalized allergy management plan, ensuring your child feels their best year-round.

Don’t let allergies hold your child back. Contact Goldsboro Pediatrics today to schedule an evaluation and take the first step toward relief!

Sources:
ACAAI.org
Pennmedicine.org
Mayo Clinic Healthline

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