22 Months Old

What's Behind My Toddler's Chronic Runny Nose?

My toddler has had a runny nose for a really long time. That can’t be serious, can it?

As gross as this may sound, you can often tell if your toddler's sniffles are something more serious by the color of the mucus. If it's clear, have no fear; that usually signifies allergies. And if it’s cloudy, it’s probably a cold.

If the mucus is yellow or green or worse, however, your child may have a sinus infection — and that's when you should get your pediatrician involved. The doctor will want to do a physical evaluation, and possibly take an X-ray, to see if it's necessary to prescribe some antibiotics. You should also always call the doctor if your child has a temperature of 101 degrees or higher, which is rarely the result of allergies or a cold.

By The Bump Editors