The BabyCenter website states that it can be difficult telling the difference between a cold or an allergy in toddlers. Both conditions produce similar signs and symptoms such as nasal discharge, a cough and sneezing, making it hard to recognize the difference. Certain signs are exclusive to allergies in toddlers that can help parents distinguish between a cold or allergies. Any signs of abnormal behavior and physical reactions should be assessed by the child's pediatrician for proper diagnosis and treatment. Kidshealth.org states that the most common signs of allergies in toddler are itchiness, redness, stuffy nose, swelling, watery eyes and coughing.
Environmental Allergy Signs
Toddlers who experience allergic reactions to environmental allergens such as pollen, dust, pet dander and mold will demonstrate signs such as sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, breathing through the mouth, rubbing or wrinkling the nose, nasal itching, and swelling around the eyes, according to Healthychildren.org. Toddlers with environmental allergies may also develop dark circles under the eyes, referred to as "allergy shiners."
Food Allergy Signs
Food allergy signs are easier to identify, according to the BabyCenter website. Food allergies occur within minutes or a few hours after the toddler has ingested a food he is allergic to. The common toddler food allergy signs, according to Healthychildren.org are hives, diarrhea, vomiting and the inability to breathe normally. In rare cases, a child may experience a severe allergic reaction to a food and show signs of swelling, shortness of breath and lethargy. If a person notices these signs, she should call 911 immediately, according to Kidshealth.org.
Asthmatic Signs
Toddlers with asthma will demonstrate particular signs including coughing, a tight chest, wheezing and difficult breathing, according to Healthychildren.org. A toddler with asthma needs to remain under a doctor's supervision until the triggers for asthma are identified. Allergies to dust mites or pollen can cause an asthmatic reaction, and infections, air pollution or excessive activity are all possible triggers that could lead to an asthma attack.
Eczema Signs
According to the Dr. Greene website, eczema is an allergic condition that is not a reaction to a particular substance, but an immune system response. Toddlers are born with eczema, especially if their parents suffer from allergies or asthma. The signs of eczema signs are dry, red, itchy patches found on the toddler's body. They commonly develop behind the legs and on inner part of the elbow. Common toddler eczema signs are constant scratching, bloody and cracked skin, and being uncomfortable.
