Pediatric ENT Doctor Discusses Findings on the Diagnosis of Allergies and Colds in Children
Birmingham, AL (PRWEB) July 28, 2015 -- An April 14, 2015 article from The Seattle Times entitled "Cold or Allergies? Here’s How to Tell the Difference" provides insight into the difference between allergies and colds. During spring and early summer, adults and children both may suffer from symptoms ranging from sniffles and sneezes to itchy eyes and fever. While seasonal allergies are common in these seasons, colds can also make an appearance, and they share many of the same symptoms. Dr. Jonathan Kulbersh and medical professionals from Pediatric ENT Associates in Birmingham discusses allergies, colds, and their treatment options.
“Spring and early summer can be a difficult time for many people, due to high levels of pollen activating allergy symptoms,” explained Dr. Kulbersh. “Seasonal allergies are often confused with regular colds, though, and vice versa, as they share many symptoms. If a person gets a ‘cold’ regularly at the turn of the season, it could be an allergy that has developed.”
The key differences in symptoms to look out for are itching and fever. Itchy eyes and noses are generally a symptom of allergies, due to histamines, while fever usually does not occur. A fever is more likely an indication of a common cold or flu. Treatment options will vary depending on whether symptoms are a result of a viral infection, bacterial infection, or allergy.
“Viral infections do not require antibiotics, and will usually run their course within a week or two,” said Dr. Kulbersh. “Bacterial infections such as strep throat can be managed with antibiotics. Allergies can generally be managed with antihistamines as well as over the counter pain medications to help alleviate symptoms.”
If a child or adult is diagnosed with seasonal allergies, there are steps that can be taken to help keep symptoms down. It is recommended to stay indoors during days with especially high pollen counts, keep doors and windows shut, and wash clothes and take a shower immediately after being outdoors. Wearing a mask when going outdoors during days with high pollen counts can help as well. Following these steps and taking allergy medications should help allergy sufferers to make it through the season.
“Over the counter allergy medications are often used to effectively manage seasonal allergies,” said Dr. Kulbersh. “If over the counter medications are not enough, parents should bring their child to an ENT specialist to see about getting a prescription. Allergies do not have to make the seasons miserable, if managed properly.”
Pediatric ENT Associates is comprised of five doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of a full range pediatric ear, nose, and throat conditions in Birmingham, Alabama. Dr. Brian J. Wiatrak, Dr. Audie Woolley, Dr. J. Scott Hill, Dr. Nicholas J. Smith, and Dr. Brian Kulbersh are all fully board-certified and have an up-to-date medical license from the state of Alabama. These doctors provide care for children of all ages experiencing ear, nose, and throat conditions, including cochlear implants, tonsillectomies, vascular malformation treatment, myringotomy tubes, and more. In addition, Pediatric ENT Associates uses the Children’s of Alabama hospital to provide medical care and a nearby outpatient center for further treatment. Pediatric ENT’s doctors are regularly published in peer-reviewed medical journals and provide both national and regional lectures. For more information, please visit http://www.pediatricentassociates.com/.
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