Colds are infections of the upper respiratory tract. The respiratory tract includes the sinuses, nasal passages , throat and larynx. Colds are spread by several viruses and are spread by the following ways.
- Touching a person with a cold.
- Breathing the virus in the air after an infected person coughs or sneezes into the air.
- Touching an object that someone with a cold has touched.
Seasonal allergies also know as hay fever, are caused by the immune system reacting to pollen from trees, grass or weed as if they are harmful. Allergic reaction can cause symptoms such as a cold. Allergies usually run in families. Seasonal allergies occur at certain times of the years. Allergy symptoms occur when the your child is allergic to allergen which include dust mites, pollen, mold and cockroaches.
| Symptoms | Allergy | Cold |
|---|---|---|
| Bodyaches | No | Yes |
| Cough | Sometimes | Often |
| Fever | Never | Yes, especially at the beginning of the cold |
| Headache | Sometimes | Often |
| Hoarseness | Sometimes | Often |
| How long does it last | As long as the child is exposed to allergens | Usually 3 to 14 days |
| Need of antibiotics | No | No |
| Occur at certain times of the year | Often | Rarely |
| Red or itchy eyes | Often | Rarely |
| Sneezing | Often | Often |
| Sore scratchy throat | Often | Often |
| Stuffy or runny nose | Often | Often |
| Warning time | Symptoms occur after exposure to allegens | Gets worse over several days |
| Weekness and fatigue | Sometimes | Sometimes |
| Wheezing | Yes | Yes |
Does Your Child Have a Cold, or Is It Allergies? https://www.whattoexpect.com/toddler/health-and-safety/cold-or-allergies/. Accessed October 23rd, 2019
Is It Allergies or a Cold? How to Tell the Difference. American Academy of Pediatrician. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/allergies-asthma/Pages/Is-It-Allergies-or-a-Cold-How-to-Tell-the-Difference.aspx. Accessed October 23rd, 2019