As the weather shifts and we spend more time indoors, runny noses and sneezing seem to make a comeback. But how can you tell whether it’s allergies or a true cold? Dr. Natasha Ahmed is here to help you spot the difference and to clear up some of the most common myths about getting sick, so your family has the facts to stay healthy all season long!
How to tell Allergies from a Cold:
Allergies:
- Tend to show up when your child is exposed to things like pollen or dust. In Central Texas, cedar pollen is a common trigger from late November through February.
- Often cause red, itchy eyes and an itchy throat, but do not come with a fever.
- Most symptoms improve with over-the-counter antihistamines (such as Zyrtec or Claritin) and nasal steroid sprays (such as Flonase).
Colds and Upper Respiratory Infections:
- These are caused by viruses, so antibiotics do not help.
- Colds often bring on cough, sore throat, body aches, and sometimes fever.
- Kids usually feel better with saline nose rinses, rest, and pain relievers for aches.
- Most colds last 7 to 10 days before resolving.
When to see a Doctor:
- If symptoms improve, then suddenly worsen again.
- Fever lasts longer than 5 days or does not respond to medicine.
- Shortness of breath or chest tightness.
- Wheezing develops.
Tips for staying healthy:
- Wash hands regularly with soap and water.
- Make rest a top priority—adequate sleep keeps your immune system strong.
- Elderberry syrup may support immune health in adults, though research is mixed and not conclusive for children. Never consume raw elderberries—they can contain compounds that release cyanide when eaten.
Common Myths about Cold and Flu Season:
- Myth #1: Going out in the cold without a jacket will make you sick.
o The chill itself doesn’t cause illness—viruses do. However, cold weather can make it easier for viruses to spread because people spend more time indoors and in close contact.
- Myth #2: You can catch the flu from the flu vaccine.
o The flu shot cannot give you the flu. It’s made from inactivated virus or a single protein that helps your immune system build protection.
- Myth #3: Green mucus means you need antibiotics.
o Not always. Mucus color can change with inflammation or the body’s immune response; it doesn’t necessarily mean you have a bacterial infection.
- Myth #4: Any temperature above 98.7° is a low-grade fever.
o True fever starts at 100.4° or higher. Mildly elevated temperatures are often a normal, healthy immune response in children.