Q. How can I tell whether my child’s symptoms are caused by a cold or allergies?

A. Cold symptoms include some fever, coughing, runny nose and eyes that subside in three to four days. With allergies, there’s no fever, but itchy eyes and runny nose persist.
Jodi Jackson, MD/Jeannette Pediatrics, Jeannette, Children’s Community Pediatrics

Q. I grew up afraid of the water. I don’t want that to happen to my child. When should I sign him up for swimming lessons?

A. The best ages are 4 or 5 years old. In addition to being physically ready, your child will have the language skills to understand directions, and will enjoy the socialization of group lessons. Make sure the instructors are certified lifeguards with CPR qualifications. At the same time, why don’t you sign up for adult beginner lessons at your local YMCA?
Keith S. Somers, MD/GIL Pediatrics, Pittsburgh & Murrysville, Children’s Community Pediatrics

Q. My child won’t wear a swim cap. What’s the best way to protect his ears while in the pool?

A.You can mold soft earplugs (sold over-the-counter) into the ear. Or use Silly Putty®. Make sure the earplugs are snug enough that they don’t fall out, but not too small, or you’ll have to take your child to his pediatrician to have them pulled out.
Leon M. Brostoff, MD/Monroeville, Children’s Community Pediatrics

Q. I’m glad my little boy loves dogs. How do I teach him to be careful, but not afraid?

A. Teach your child to always ask another adult if it’s OK to pet a dog. If it’s OK, your child should then let the dog smell his hand first. After the dog sniffs his hand, he can pet the dog where the dog can still see his hand. Tell him not to pet the dog on top of his headfirst. This may startle the dog.
Norman Cohen, MD/South Hills Pediatric Associates, Brentwood, & Jefferson Hills, Children’s Community Pediatrics

Q. How can I protect my children from getting bee stings this summer?

A. Bees and wasps are attracted to brightly colored clothing and sweet scents. Even if your youngsters like wearing colorful clothes, you can cover bottles, jars or cans of sweet drinks and foods that attract the insects. Call your pediatrician immediately if your child has an allergic reaction, including hives or swelling around the face.
Mark A. Koenig, MD/Allegheny Pediatrics, Aspinwall, Children’s Community Pediatrics

Q. My children and their friends enjoy exploring the woods on summer days. Is it inevitable that they’ll have allergic reactions to poison ivy or other similar plants?

A. Avoiding poisonous plants, which contain an oily substance called urushiol, is the best medicine. Teach your children to identify the leaves of poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac. Then, go outdoors with them on an identification hunt. They should wear long pants and long sleeves.

To remove the oils, wash your children’s skin with cool, soapy water within four hours after contact.

The fluid from the blisters is not contagious. However, oils that stay on your child’s hands, clothes and shoes can spread. Wash all as soon as possible
Keith Pirl, MD/Russellton Pediatrics, Harmar & Tarentum, Children’s Community Pediatrics