“How do you tell allergies from a cold in the winter?”
My 10 year old son is exhibiting symptoms that could be allergies or a cold. How do you tell allergies from a cold in the winter?
3 Answers
It can be tricky. I would try allergy medicines, such as Zyrtec, Claritin, or Allegra. If those medicines work, then it is most likely allergies.
it is quite hard even for medical professionals to tell the difference sometimes as the symptoms overlap and are often the same. If the symptoms are now and he is not febrile there is a high likelihood they are allergy-related. Also if they are lasting more than a week or 10d they may be more allergy-related. If you are concerned then have your child see the pediatrician who may be able to help in deciding which one is more likely.
Dr. Evelyn Tolson
Allergist and Immunologist
Perennial allergies, like those to indoor dust mites and molds spores may mimic the cold. The best way to distinguish between two would be a visit to a specialist who can examine your child and perform an allergy skin testing.
