Is It Allergies or a Cold? How to Tell the Difference in Kids
July 2, 2025
As a parent, it’s easy to feel confused when your child suddenly starts sneezing, sniffling, or complaining of a stuffy nose. Is it just a cold? Or could it be allergies? The symptoms often look so similar that telling them apart can be tricky.
Understanding the difference is important because how you manage each one is very different. Let’s break down the key signs to help you figure out what’s going on when your child isn’t feeling their best.
How Allergies and Colds Are Different
Both allergies and colds can cause things like a runny nose, congestion, sneezing, and even a cough. However, there are a few telltale differences:
- Fever or body aches? That usually points to a cold. Allergies don’t cause fevers.
- Itchy, watery eyes? Classic allergy symptom. Colds rarely make eyes itchy.
- Clear vs. colored mucus: Allergies tend to cause clear, runny mucus, while colds often lead to thicker mucus that may turn yellow or green as the body fights off the virus.
- Timing matters: If symptoms show up suddenly during certain seasons (like spring or fall) or when your child is around dust, pollen, or pets, allergies are more likely. Colds usually come on gradually and tend to happen more during the winter months when viruses are spreading.
How Long Does It Last?
- Colds typically run their course in about 7 to 10 days. You may notice your child feels worse for the first few days and then gradually improves.
- Allergies can linger for weeks—or as long as your child is exposed to the allergen (like pollen or pet dander).
Signs It Might Be Allergies:
- Sneezing fits that come out of nowhere.
- Itchy, watery, or red eyes
- Clear, runny nose that seems never-ending
- No fever, no body aches
- Symptoms show up during certain seasons or after being around specific triggers like grass, dust, or animals
Signs It’s Likely a Cold:
- Slow onset—your child starts feeling tired or complains of a sore throat before the congestion hits
- Low-grade fever
- Body aches or general discomfort
- Thicker nasal mucus that changes color
- Lasts about a week to 10 days, then clears up
When Should You Call the Pediatrician?
Sometimes, it can still be hard to tell. Give us a call if:
- Your child has a fever that lasts more than 48 hours
- Symptoms hang on longer than 10 days without getting better
- There’s wheezing, trouble breathing, or a persistent cough
- Allergies are interfering with sleep, school, or daily life
We can help determine if it’s an allergy, a cold, or even something else like a sinus infection, and help you come up with the right plan to get your child feeling better.
At Holly Springs Pediatrics, we’re here to support your family’s health all year round. If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s skin, give us a call. We’re happy to help you find the best ways to keep your little one comfortable and healthy this season.
Holly Springs Pediatrics is committed to providing quality care to your kids at all times on a wide array of subjects. For more information or to get in contact with our office, call (919) 249-4700 to schedule an appointment.