As the seasons change, many children start displaying symptoms that can often be mistaken for a common cold. However, these symptoms might be signs of hay fever, or seasonal allergies, and are common, with approximately 14 million children experiencing environmental allergies in the U.S. If you’re a parent noticing these signs in your child, it’s helpful to understand how to identify allergy symptoms and understand what steps to take next.
Noticeable Symptoms
The following symptoms are indications that a child may be experiencing seasonal allergies:
- Sneezing: Frequent and repetitive sneezing, especially in specific environments like outdoors in Riverfront City Park or in dusty rooms.
- Runny or stuffy nose: Persistent nasal congestion or a clear, watery nasal discharge.
- Itchy eyes: Red, watery eyes that may also be itchy or irritated.
- Coughing: Dry cough, particularly without any other cold symptoms like fever or body aches.
- Skin irritation: Some children may develop rashes or itchy skin due to allergies.
One of the key distinctions between allergies and a cold is the absence of fever with allergies. Allergy symptoms also tend to persist or recur in specific situations, such as during certain times of the year or in certain environments, such as pollen-heavy environments. Cold symptoms, however, may include a fever, body aches and would typically improve within a week.
Steps for Parents to Take
If you suspect your child is experiencing seasonal allergies, consult your child’s doctor. The doctor can help confirm the diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options. Parents should also consider the following:
- Identify triggers: Try to identify what triggers your child’s allergies. Keep a note of when symptoms worsen or improve, which can provide clues about environmental triggers such as pollen, dust mites or pet dander.
- Minimize exposure: Take steps to minimize your child’s exposure to allergens. Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons, use air purifiers with HEPA filters indoors, and regularly clean your home to reduce dust and pet dander.
- Consider medication: Depending on the severity of your child’s allergies, your pediatrician may recommend over-the-counter antihistamines or nasal sprays to alleviate symptoms. It’s crucial to follow dosage instructions carefully and discuss any concerns with your child’s doctor.
- Create a comfortable environment: Ensure your child has a comfortable and soothing environment at home. Use saline nasal sprays to relieve congestion, offer cool compresses for itchy eyes, and encourage hydration to keep nasal passages moist. Routinely clean linens and drapes, vacuum and dust regularly and consider limiting pets’ time in the child’s bedroom.
- Educate your child: If your child is old enough, educate them about their allergies and how to manage symptoms. Teach them to recognize triggers and encourage them to communicate any discomfort they may be experiencing.
Seasonal allergies can be challenging for both children and parents, but with the right knowledge and proactive steps, you can help alleviate your child’s symptoms. To learn more about managing your child’s seasonal allergies, schedule a consultation with Willamette ENT & Facial Plastic Surgery today.
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