Is it a Cold or Allergies? Seasonal Allergy Symptoms in Kids

Your child has a runny nose, watery eyes and is more tired than usual. She’s also congested and has a headache. Is it allergies or a cold? Sometimes it can be hard to tell the difference between seasonal allergies and the common cold – especially in kids. Use the information below to help you determine seasonal allergy symptoms in kids.

Seasonal Allergy Symptoms in Kids

Seasonal allergies and common colds share a lot of the same symptoms:

• Sneezing
• Watery eyes
• Congestion
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Runny nose

So how do you know what your child has?

We talked to Dr. Justin Greiwe, an Allergist-Immunologist based in Cincinnati, to help us better understand how to know whether our kids have a cold or seasonal allergies. Read some of his tips below and then watch the video to learn more.

How Long Have the Symptoms Lasted?

Colds usually run their course within 7 – 10 days. Seasonal allergies last as long as your child is exposed to the allergen – which could mean an entire season – or until the flowers making them sneeze have been removed from the house.

How Old Is Your Child?

While oftentimes parents may think that their baby has allergies after dealing with a runny nose for months, it’s very rare for kids to experience seasonal allergies until they’re 4-6 years of age.

Most likely your newborn or young toddler’s stuffy nose is from exposure to common viruses that they haven’t experienced before.

Do Allergies Run In Your Family?

Allergies are hereditary, so if you have allergies, it’s very likely that your kids will too. Sometimes you may not even realize that the cold you get every spring is actually seaonal allergies until your child is diagnosed with seasonal allergies.

Think Your Child Has Seasonal Allergies?

If you think your child has seasonal allergies, we’re here to help! And, while our products won’t put an end to seasonal allergies, the Boogie brand offers a variety of items that might help ease your little one's symptoms.

Boogie Wipes® Saline Nose Wipes are infused with natural saline, making it easier to break downa nd wipe away mucus. And, because saline is natural and hypoallergenic, it can soothe even the most delicate skin and reduce irritation. 

Raw red nose? Try Boogie Saline Nasal Gel. It's a non-medicated, soothing gel that helps moisturize and hydrate dry, irritated noses.

Use bathtime to ease congestion with Boogie Vapor Bath and Boogie Bath Salts. They are made with naturally derived ingredients and release boogie-busting vapors to soothe and ease the stuffies.

You can shop our entire allergy-busting line-up of products here.

If your little one is still suffering, it may make sense to book an appointment with your pediatrician who may suggest allergy medication or an appointment with a specialist.