Is your child's cough a cold, sinus infection or allergy?

Even in the middle of a pandemic, children experience the same coughs, sniffles and sneezing they've probably known every other year.

In fact, coughing and nasal congestion are common symptoms for many illnesses, so it's important to identify the exact cause of your child's discomfort. Effective treatment starts with an accurate diagnosis. With a little information, parents can start to figure out a cause at home.

Is it a cold?

Upper respiratory infections, more commonly known as colds, often cause a runny nose, congestion, cough and headache. When a cold causes a fever, it's typically early in the illness, resolving within one to two days. Most cold symptoms typically peak in three to six days; however, respiratory symptoms nearly always begin to resolve immediately afterward.

Is it a sinus infection?

For adults, a sinus infection - sinusitis - typically causes pain or tenderness in areas of the face above or below the nose and eyes. For children, whose nasal sinuses aren't fully developed until age 12, the symptoms may not be so easily identified.

A child's sinusitis typically is a secondary infection from an existing cold. You may suspect sinusitis in a child if they've had a cold for more than 10 days with the symptoms not improving. They may have a cough that's worse at night, develop a fever more than 101 degrees and have yellow or green nasal discharge from the nose or eyes. If your child's cold symptoms last longer than 10 days, it's best to see a doctor.

When is it an allergy?

If your child is having an allergic reaction, they also may have nasal discharge; however, it will likely be different from a sinus infection. Rather than green or yellow, allergies often cause a runny nose that's waterier and clearer in color. Sneezing, itchy nose and itchy and watery eyes may also be seen. Allergies do not cause a fever. Children will experience allergies as long as they're are exposed to the allergen, so it's helpful to avoid those triggers. In addition, they may need oral medications, nasal sprays or eye drops to help relieve the symptoms.

Regardless of the reason for your child's nasal congestion, cough or other symptoms, all you want is for them to feel better. If there's no relief or improvement of symptoms within a week, be sure to make a visit to the doctor.

• Children's health is a continuing series. This week's article is courtesy of Amita Health.