Source: WPSD

Springtime allergies make it hard to tell the difference between sniffles and a serious illness. Reidland Intermediate and Reidland Middle School nurse Morgan McCarnan shared tips on identifying allergies and managing sickness.

McCarnan said several students had runny noses, coughing, and allergy-like symptoms. She advised observing specific signs like a fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher with these symptoms to determine if a student has allergies or a different illness.

McCarnan, who works with fourth- through eighth-grade students, recommended preventive measures like handwashing, a balanced diet, and adequate hydration to reduce the risk of getting sick. When parents have questions about their child’s attendance, she advised them to judge based on their child’s condition.

“Parents know their children best,” McCarnan said. “If your child is not feeling well and won’t have a productive day, it’s like deciding if you could have made it to work. If you think you’re too sick to go or don’t feel capable of giving your best, stay home. Observe how the day progresses and schedule a doctor’s appointment if needed.”

Fourth-grader Kenlyn Short shared her health tips at school, including carrying Kleenex for nose wiping and using your elbow when coughing. The school nurse can provide allergy medication.

Taylor Gardner D.O., a Baptist Health Medical Group family medicine practitioner, explained that allergies are the most prevalent circulating illness, along with COVID-19, the flu, and upper respiratory illnesses.

“While similar symptoms like a runny nose, sneezing, and coughing exist, they vary. Fevers and sore throats suggest viral or bacterial infections, while runny nose or itchy eyes indicate allergies.

Gardner noted key signs like persistent tiredness or body aches suggest more than allergies. Antibiotics aren’t effective against allergies, even viral infections. If symptoms persist over a week and aren’t allergic, we consider a bacterial infection warranting antibiotics.

In such cases, take over-the-counter antihistamines and avoid secondhand smoke. While we can’t eliminate our environment, we can limit exposure to allergens. Secondhand smoke irritates respiratory diseases, reducing inflammation and symptoms.”

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