Humans have many protective systems in their bodies. One of these systems is the mast cells that line our nasal passages. These tiny cells guard against dangerous elements in the air whenever we breathe. Some of us have mast cells that are more sensitive than others and react to particles of dust, pet dander and pollen. Mast cells actually collect these particles and gradually the cell swells and finally breaks releasing histamines and other strong chemicals into the nasal passageway. That is the time when we witness the most common symptoms of the allergies: itching, sneezing, watery eyes and general nasal congestion.

So, as a parent, how do you tell the difference between a cold and an allergy? The nasal discharge associated with an allergy is
usually clear and the child will sneeze frequently. The child’s eyes will become watery, and often because of the itchiness associated with the inflammation in the nasal passages, the child will rub and contort their face. With a cold, the nasal discharge at first is clear, but as the cold progresses the mucous usually becomes thicker and greenish in color. The cough will be more pronounced and “wet sounding.” One significant difference is that often the child with a cold may also have a fever.

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