We are navigating truly extraordinary times. Parenting during a global pandemic was not part of the deal for any of us. If you’re anything like me—or most parents today—this situation has brought on increased stress and anxiety. You might be worrying about elderly family members, immunocompromised friends, and the frontline workers risking their lives. On top of that, there’s the constant concern for your children’s health. Every little sneeze or cough can send you into a spiral of panic.
Just the other day, my eight-year-old mentioned a sore throat, and I immediately felt a wave of anxiety wash over me. Thankfully, he was just thirsty, but it’s hard not to jump to the worst conclusions. We all know that kids seem to catch every germ in sight, and their noses can run for no apparent reason. So how do we keep our sanity regarding our children’s health during these chaotic times?
Knowledge is essential. The more we understand what to look for, what symptoms to expect, and where to find reliable information, the better equipped we are to handle these situations. To help clarify some common concerns, I consulted Dr. Emily Parker, a pediatrician at Kids Health Associates. Here’s what she had to say:
How Can Parents Differentiate Between Cold Symptoms and Allergy Symptoms?
Dr. Parker pointed out that distinguishing between a cold and allergies can be challenging, especially for younger children. However, she noted that kids under two rarely experience seasonal allergies. “If your child has a runny nose and cough at this age, it’s likely a viral cold,” she explained.
For children over two, here’s how to differentiate between colds and allergies: both can cause runny noses, fatigue, mild headaches, and red eyes. However, viral colds usually come with fever, reduced appetite, body aches, and sore throats, while seasonal allergies do not. An important clue? Itchy eyes are a common allergy symptom but not typically associated with colds.
How Do Cold and Allergy Symptoms Compare to COVID-19 Symptoms?
This is the question on every parent’s mind. How can you tell if your child has a cold, allergies, or COVID-19? “We are still learning how COVID-19 affects children,” Dr. Parker shared. Currently, it seems that both children and adults can contract the virus, although children’s symptoms are often milder. Symptoms include fever, cough, extreme fatigue, runny nose, and diarrhea. Some children may even be asymptomatic.
Dr. Parker emphasized that fever is a key sign of a viral illness. Extreme fatigue, body aches, and changes in appetite are also not typical for children with allergies.
When Should Parents Consult a Doctor?
Deciding to take your child to a doctor amidst the pandemic is now more complicated. Should you risk exposure? What constitutes a real emergency? “If you’re concerned, always contact your child’s doctor,” Dr. Parker advised. Fortunately, many pediatricians are still seeing patients in person and offering virtual consultations.
“Don’t hesitate to reach out,” she reassured. Your pediatrician can provide guidance on comfort measures for viral illnesses and recommend safe allergy treatments.
What Are the Best Home Treatment Options?
Let’s say you’ve figured out what’s going on with your child. Here are Dr. Parker’s recommendations for home care (always consult your doctor before administering any treatments):
- For viral colds: Administer age-appropriate doses of ibuprofen or acetaminophen to alleviate aches and reduce fever. Keeping your child hydrated is crucial. Honey can serve as a cough suppressant for children over one year old. Avoid over-the-counter cold medications for young kids unless directed by a physician.
- For seasonal allergies: These can typically be treated with various over-the-counter medications. Be aware of potential side effects, especially drowsiness. Dr. Parker suggests long-acting, non-drowsy antihistamines for kids. Many allergy medications can be conveniently ordered online.
- For COVID-19: Guidelines for managing COVID-19 are evolving, so reach out to your child’s doctor if you suspect exposure or symptoms.
In these uncertain times, it’s natural to feel anxious about your children’s health. However, reliable information from medical professionals provides some comfort. As Dr. Parker noted, your doctor is there to help, so don’t hesitate to ask for guidance.
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Summary
In summary, understanding the differences between cold symptoms, allergies, and COVID-19 can help parents manage their children’s health effectively during these challenging times. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns about your child’s symptoms.