It can be difficult to tell early allergy symptoms apart from a cold, since children may not always describe how they feel. (1, 2)

Knowing which symptoms are common in allergies or a cold, and recognizing the patterns in which they occur, can provide important clues.

By the end of this article, you will be able to tell when your child is experiencing more than a run-of-the-mill school sickness, and it’s time to start thinking about allergies.

What Are the Most Common Allergy Symptoms in Children?

Allergies in children happen when their immune system overreacts to a usually harmless substance, called an allergen in the air, food or environment.

Allergic rhinitis (nasal allergy), commonly known as hayfever, is one of the most common ailments  in children caused by allergies, and can be seasonal or year-round. (1)

Common allergy symptoms in children include:

• Runny and itching nose

• Nasal congestion

• Sneezing

• Postnasal drip

• Itchy, watery or red eyes

• Fatigue

What Are the Most Common Cold Symptoms in Children?

Colds in children are often caused by viruses that infect the nose, throat and sinuses. Most children will catch at least 6 to 8 colds every year.  (2) Your child may be more likely to have colds during fall and winter. 

Common cold symptoms in children include: (3)

• Runny nose

• Nasal congestion

• Sneezing 

• Coughing

• Mild sore throat

• Headache 

• Fatigue 

• Fever (not very high)

What’s the Difference Between Cold and Allergy Symptoms in Kids?

Allergies and colds have some symptoms in common like nasal congestion and runny nose, which can make them difficult to tell apart.

Here are some key differences between cold and allergy symptoms in children: (2)

At the end of the day, the best way to determine whether your child is suffering from allergies or cold is to see an allergy specialist and run an allergy test.

Can Your Child Go to School With Allergies or a Cold?

Allergies and colds are different as allergies are not contagious but colds are.  (2) Whether your child can go to school will depend on whether their symptoms are caused by allergies or a cold, how severe the symptoms are, and how well they feel overall.

If your child have mild, controlled allergy, they should be able to manage going to school. (4) However,  its important to inform your child school of any allergies they may have and also disclose any allergy medication they may be taking to help manage any emergency. (4)

If your child has mild cold symptoms like an occasional cough or stuffy nose and feel well enough to participate in class, then depending on the school policy then they can go to school.

However,  if your child has an active cold with symptoms like severe cough, fever or low energy, it may be best to let them get better before sending them off to school. (2) The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends keeping your child home for at least 24 hours after they have been fever-free from a cold.

When Should You See a Doctor for Your Child’s Cold or Allergy Symptoms

Many mild cold and allergy symptoms can be managed at home, however, you may need to see a healthcare provider especially in severe cases.

When to See a Doctor for Cold Symptoms

You should see a healthcare provider if your child  shows the following symptoms: (5)

• Has trouble breathing or breathing too rapidly

• Not eating

• Is vomiting

• Lips look blue

• Coughing so bad

• Thick nasal discharge (yellow, or green) last for more than 10 to 14 days

If your child is 3 months or younger it's important to call the pediatrician at the first sign of a cold as it can quickly develop into more dangerous problems such as croup, pneumonia or bronchiolitis. (2)

When to See a Doctor for Allergy Symptoms

You should see a healthcare provider if:  (6)

• Your child has trouble breathing

• Allergy symptoms does not improve with over-the-counter medication

• If symptoms interfere with your child’s sleep, school performance/attendance, sports/hobbies et

• If you’ve noticed a specific environmental trigger
  

• If your child has wheezing, persistent coughing, or other respiratory symptoms

Start overcoming your allergies.

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How Quello Can Help Your Child Find Relief From Allergies

If your child’s symptoms keep coming back, allergy testing can help you understand what may be triggering them. 

Quello offers an at-home test for common indoor and outdoor allergens, followed by support from a licensed provider.

If your child is over age 4, they may also be eligible for personalized allergy drops after a consultation with a provider.

FAQs

Can Allergies Cause a Fever in Children?

Allergies do not typically cause fever in children. If your child has a fever, it may be a sign of a cold or viral infection, not allergies.

How Long Do Colds and Allergies Last in Kids?

Cold symptoms in kids usually last 3 to 14 days. Allergy symptoms can last much longer (up to 3 weeks or more) or as long as you are exposed to the allergen.

Can a child have allergies and a cold at the same time?

Yes, a child can have allergies and a cold at the same time because the two conditions have different causes. If your child is allergic to pet dander and is exposed to a dog or cat, it may trigger allergy symptoms. If they are also exposed to a virus that causes a cold, symptoms from both conditions can overlap.