41-springallergiesWith warmer weather and blooming plant life this spring, allergies will be on the rise. If your child has allergies, knowing how to ease their discomfort is important to you. Not to mention knowing whether or not those sniffles and cough are really allergies or something else.

Is It Allergies or a Cold?


Since allergies and the cold share many symptoms like coughing and a runny nose, it can sometimes be difficult to know what’s affecting your child. Colds are sometimes accompanied by a low fever, and allergies by itchy, watery eyes. It may sound gross, but a good way to tell the difference between colds and allergies is by nasal secretions.

Colds more often than not produce discharge that is:

  • Thick
  • A yellow or green color

On the other hand, discharge from allergies tends to be:

  • Watery
  • Clear

Know How & When to Medicate

If you do choose to medicate your child, remember that child drug safety is of the utmost importance. Talk to your child’s doctor before treating them for allergies as some over-the-counter medicines can be harmful to kids. When giving them allergy medication, make sure your child is getting a safe dosage. Do not use medication continuously for several months.

Prevention is the best long-term treatment for allergies. There are several steps you can take to avoid pollen and reduce allergies:

  • Keep car and house windows closed
  • Recirculate indoor air
  • Keep yourself and your home clean
  • Keep track of pollen levels

Otherwise, an antihistamine can help relieve allergy symptoms in your child. If necessary, your child’s doctor may even prescribe a nasal spray. If giving more than one medication, make sure there is no overlap in the active ingredients. Overlap may result in an ingredient overdose.

If you wish to donate items to your child’s classroom this allergy season, ask the teacher beforehand. Otherwise, a lot of what has been donated may not get used. Items that can be donated include:

  • Facial tissue
  • Hand sanitizer

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