In these unpredictable times, parenting amidst a global pandemic feels like an uncharted journey. If you’re anything like me—or most parents today—you’re probably grappling with heightened anxiety and stress. The worries seem endless: the health of elderly relatives, the well-being of those with compromised immune systems, and the safety of frontline workers, not to mention the individuals battling the virus in hospitals.
Even with all precautions in place, the concern for our children’s health can be overwhelming. A simple sneeze or sniffle might trigger a mini panic attack. Just the other day, my eight-year-old mentioned a sore throat, and I spiraled into a frenzy of worry, convinced he must have contracted COVID-19. Thankfully, he was just thirsty!
It’s no surprise that kids often pick up every germ in sight, and their noses can run for seemingly no reason at all. So, what’s a parent to do? How can we maintain our sanity about our children’s health during these chaotic times? I believe knowledge is the key. To shed some light on this, I reached out to Dr. Emily Richards, a pediatrician, to help us navigate these murky waters.
Differentiating Between Colds and Allergies
Dr. Richards emphasized that distinguishing between a cold and allergies can be tricky, especially for younger children who often have runny noses. However, she noted that kids under two years old are rarely affected by seasonal allergies. “If your child has a runny nose and cough at this age, it’s more likely a viral cold,” she explained.
For children over two, here’s how to differentiate:
- Both colds and allergies may cause runny noses, red eyes, mild headaches, and fatigue.
- Viral colds are more inclined to include fever, loss of appetite, body aches, and sore throat.
- Allergies do not cause fever or body aches, and sore throats are rare with allergies.
“Pollen, a common allergen, often leads to itchy eyes,” Dr. Richards added. “If your child has itchy eyes along with other symptoms, it’s likely allergies. Itching is not a sign of a viral cold.”
Identifying COVID-19 Symptoms
The question on every parent’s mind: How do we know if our child has a cold, allergies, or COVID-19? “We continue to learn about how COVID-19 affects children,” Dr. Richards shared. “Currently, it appears that both children and adults can contract the virus, but symptoms in children tend to be milder.”
Symptoms of COVID-19 in children can mirror those of adults: fever, cough, extreme fatigue, runny nose, shortness of breath, poor appetite, and diarrhea. Some children may even be asymptomatic carriers.
Dr. Richards pointed out that fever remains a telltale sign of viral illness. “Extreme fatigue, body aches, and changes in appetite are typically not seen in children suffering from seasonal allergies.”
When to Seek Medical Attention
In today’s climate, deciding whether to visit a pediatrician can be daunting. The risk of potential exposure to the virus weighs heavily on parents’ minds. “If you are ever worried, don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s doctor,” Dr. Richards advised. Most pediatricians are still open for in-office visits, or you can schedule a virtual consultation. “Your child’s doctor can guide you on comfort measures for viral illnesses or suggest safe allergy treatments,” she reassured.
Recommended Treatments
If you know what your child is dealing with or have consulted a doctor, what are the best home remedies? Here’s what Dr. Richards suggests (always consult your physician before administering any medications):
For viral colds:
- Age-appropriate doses of ibuprofen or acetaminophen can alleviate aches and reduce fever.
- Keeping your child well-hydrated is crucial.
- Honey is an effective cough suppressant for children over one year (but avoid it for those under one).
- Over-the-counter cold medications are generally not recommended for young children without a doctor’s guidance.
For seasonal allergies:
- Numerous over-the-counter medications are available for allergy relief.
- Be aware of potential side effects, as some medications can cause drowsiness.
- Long-acting, non-drowsy antihistamines like Children’s Allegra are often recommended.
- Many allergy medications can be conveniently ordered online, which is especially helpful during quarantine.
As for COVID-19:
“COVID-19 treatment is rapidly evolving and varies by community,” Dr. Richards explained. “If you suspect your child has been exposed or is showing symptoms, contact their doctor for specific guidance.”
At the end of the day, it’s natural to feel anxious about our children’s health during these turbulent times. However, having access to reliable information from healthcare professionals can certainly ease our worries. Your doctor is always there to help, so do reach out when concerns arise.
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Summary: In a world filled with uncertainty, distinguishing between cold symptoms, allergies, and COVID-19 in children is crucial for parents. Consulting with a pediatrician can provide clarity and peace of mind. Always prioritize your child’s health and don’t hesitate to seek professional advice when needed.
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