When you’re a parent, any symptom your child shows can be a cause for concern. If they have a runny nose or are congested, you might wonder whether it’s just another cold or if you’re dealing with seasonal allergies. The symptoms can overlap, making it tough to tell the two apart, but different treatment methods can be effective for each.
Knowing the differences between allergy and cold systems is important to give your child the proper relief. We share key distinctions among the causes, duration, and symptoms so you can take the best approach to care.
Key Differences Between Allergies And Colds
While both allergies and colds can have similarities, such as sneezing, nasal congestion, and a runny nose, there are major differences between them.
Causes
The common cold is a virus, passed from person to person, that spreads through direct contact, airborne droplets, or contaminated surfaces. Once individuals contract the virus, it begins to affect their respiratory systems.
Allergies, meanwhile, result from allergens such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, or mold. To be more specific, they are a result of our immune systems overreacting to these allergens. When an immune system senses the presence of these harmful but alien substances, it perceives them as threats and releases histamines, which cause allergy symptoms.
Duration
The duration of the symptoms is the easiest way to distinguish between colds and allergies.
A cold typically lasts 7 to 10 days, with symptoms gradually improving until they’re gone completely. Allergy symptoms last as long as a child is exposed to the allergen. If the symptoms last weeks or months, it’s much more likely to be an allergy than a cold.
Seasonal patterns
Colds are typically more common during the fall and winter months, as we spend more time indoors where we are exposed to those who might be carrying the virus.
Allergies, however, often follow seasonal patterns. For instance, symptoms are common in the Spring for those who are allergic to pollen. People with allergies to mold or leaf decay may be more prone to allergic reactions in the Fall. That said, some children can have year-round allergies stemming from allergic reactions to such as pet dander, mold, or dust mites.
Symptom Comparison: A Cold Vs. Allergies
While the symptoms can be similar between a cold and allergies, a close look at them can help you identify the differences and, in turn, determine whether your child might have a cold or allergies. Let’s break it down:
| Symptom | Cold | Allergies |
| Cough | Common, caused by mucus dripping down into the throat | Less common but can happen due to mucus dripping down into the throat |
| Fever | Sometimes, usually mild | None |
| Itchy Eyes/Nose | Rare | Common, with watery eyes often present |
| Runny Nose | Common; the mucus typically looks clear to begin with but may become thick and yellow | Common; mucus is likely to be clear and watery for the duration |
| Sneezing | Common, but fits aren’t as long as with allergies | Often, and can be sustained for long bursts |
| Sore Throat | Common, as a result of mucus drainage and coughing | Not as common, but sometimes occurs alongside coughing |
While some symptoms are similar, a close inspection can help a parent determine whether a child is dealing with a cold or allergies.
Treatment Approaches For Colds Vs. Allergies
Colds and allergies have different causes and require different methods to treat them effectively. Our child-friendly treatment at Just 4 Kids can help you find the best solution for your child.
How to treat a cold
Colds are caused by viruses that evolve each year, so there is no cure for colds. Instead, the preferred strategy is to manage the symptoms until the virus runs its course, including:
- Rest and hydration: Make sure your child gets plenty of rest and fluids to help quicken recovery.
- Saline nasal spray: Saline nasal spray can help clear nasal congestion and keep nasal passages moist to lessen discomfort.
- Over-the-counter cold medicine: These medications typically treat symptoms such as congestion, coughing, and any pain associated with the virus, such as headaches.
- Humidifiers: A cool-mist humidifier can help ease a sore throat and reduce congestion.
How to treat allergies
Allergies are caused by the body’s release of histamines after the immune system senses allergens inside the body. As such, there are different treatment approaches, including:
- Antihistamines: These medications block the release of histamines, which cause allergy symptoms. There are many options. Those with reduced side effects causing drowsiness may be better for children.
- Steroid nasal sprays: Such nasal sprays can reduce inflammation and congestion caused by allergic reactions.
- Avoiding allergens: For instance, keeping the windows closed during pollen season, using air purifiers, and washing hands after pet exposure can prevent allergic reactions.
- Allergy testing: It’s a good idea to identify which allergens, in particular, trigger a reaction in your child so you can better avoid those allergens.
When to See a Pediatrician
The vast majority of both colds and allergies can be treated or managed at home. However, you may want to schedule a visit with your pediatrician if, for instance, your child has symptoms lasting longer than 10 days, as this may indicate a secondary infection. You may also want to arrange a pediatric visit if severe allergy symptoms make breathing difficult for your child or cause persistently annoying skin reactions.
Any breathing difficulties, such as wheezing or severe congestion, can indicate asthma or other respiratory conditions that need immediate medical attention.
Pediatric Urgent Care Services in Southeast Idaho
Colds and allergic reactions rarely need urgent care, but knowing the difference between cold and allergy symptoms can help you find the treatment options that best suit your needs. Just 4 Kids is here to help diagnose and manage these conditions. Visit one of our urgent care locations for compassionate and specialized pediatric care.
If your child shows symptoms that are more prolonged or severe than usual, or if there are other reasons for concern about your child’s health, be sure to reach out for pediatric care.