In shortColds start slowly, may bring a fever and clear in 7 to 10 days. Allergies come on suddenly after a trigger, cause itchy eyes and sneezing, and last for weeks.
Almost every parent I meet says some version of the same thing: "Doctor, she has had a runny nose for two weeks. Is it a cold that refuses to leave, or is it an allergy?" It is one of the most common questions in my clinic, and a fair one. The two look very alike. The good news is that a few simple clues usually give the game away.
First, the quick clues
Colds are caused by viruses and spread from child to child, especially in school and crèche. Allergies are the body overreacting to something harmless, like dust or pollen. That one difference explains almost everything else, as you can see below.
Watch the calendar
Time is my favourite clue. A cold follows a pattern: it builds, peaks and fades. If your child is still sniffling after ten days or so with no sign of improvement, or the symptoms keep coming back at the same time of day or year, an allergy moves up the list.
Keep a tiny diary for a week. Note the time, what your child was doing and the symptoms. Patterns that are invisible day to day often jump out on paper.
Where do allergies hide at home?
Parents are often surprised that the culprits live in the most comfortable corners of the house. Take a look at a typical bedroom:
Washing bedding in hot water every week, keeping soft toys to a minimum in the bedroom, and fixing damp patches are small steps that make a surprising difference.
When should you see the doctor?
Come and see us if the symptoms last more than two weeks, if your child's sleep, school or play is suffering, or if there is wheezing or a cough that is worse at night. Please seek urgent care straight away if your child has difficulty breathing or swelling of the lips or face.
If we suspect an allergy, a simple Skin Prick Test can show exactly what is behind it, so that we can plan the right treatment instead of guessing.
See a doctor in HSR Layout, Bangalore
CARE Speciality Clinic offers childhood allergy and asthma care in HSR Layout, Bengaluru with Dr. Mahima Shetty KR, open Monday to Saturday. Patients come from Agara, Koramangala, BTM Layout, Sarjapur Road, Bellandur and Haralur. Book online or call 96320 71178.
Book appointment Learn more about our care
Consultant Pediatrician, MBBS, MD (Pediatrics). Sees patients Mon–Sat at CARE Speciality Clinic, HSR Layout.
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This article is for general information and does not replace a medical consultation.