Here are some signs that your child may have allergies:

• Runny nose—With allergies, nasal discharge is usually thin, clear, and watery.
• Sneezing (often three or more times in a row)—Although some colds can cause sneezing, it is much more common with allergies.
• Irritated, red, itchy, or watery eyes.
• "Allergic shiners"—Dark, swollen bags under the eyes. (This is probably caused by nasal congestion.)
• Allergic salute—Frequent, upward rubbing of the nose that can last more than 2 weeks. This rubbing can lead to an "allergic crease" or line at the bridge of the nose.
• Mouth breathing—Kids with allergies often breathe through their mouth because they have trouble breathing through their nose.
• If both parents have allergies, the child's chances of developing allergies are 66%.
• If only one parent has allergies, the child's chances of developing allergies are 50%.

If you are confused by your child's symptoms, or if the symptoms are prolonged, you should contact your healthcare professional for guidance.

Does My Child Have Allergies or a Cold?

Determining whether your child has allergies or a cold can be difficult—even for the doctor. The symptoms are similar: Both may cause sneezing, congestion, a runny nose, watery eyes, fatigue, and headaches. But colds don't usually cause children to have itchy, scratchy feelings in their throat and eyes. And colds often start with a sore throat or are accompanied by one.

The overall duration of symptoms may also give a clue about what's causing your child's symptoms. Colds and their symptoms will generally run for a 7-day to 10-day period. Allergy symptoms subside soon after exposure to the allergen ceases, often within several hours.

Also, clear mucous discharge is usually associated with allergies, while thick yellow-green mucus usually suggests an infection.

If you are confused by your child's symptoms, or if the symptoms are prolonged, you should contact your healthcare professional for guidance.