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Advice: Allergies

Allergies

Seasonal allergy basics

  • Allergic rhinitis, also called hay fever or seasonal allergies, occurs when the body’s immune system “overreacts” to an allergen such as pollen.
  • Symptoms include runny nose, red/watery/itchy eyes, sore or itchy throat, or cough.
  • To reduce symptom severity: Avoid playing around flower beds or shrubbery when symptoms are bad or pollen count is high, Wash your child’s hands and face when they come in from playing outside, Wash hair nightly, Wash sheets and pillowcases at least once a week
  • You may also use the over the counter medications listed below.

Treatment

  • Antihistamines: Oral antihistamines like Zyrtec, Allegra, Claritin, or Xyzal can be given once a day to help with all allergy symptoms. If your child is prone to seasonal allergies, consider giving these daily between early April and late June! Of note, benadryl is not routinely recommended for seasonal allergies in younger children because of side effects including drowsiness. In fact, the “2nd generation” allergy medicines like Zyrtec and Allegra can actually work faster and last longer than Benadryl!
  • Nasal Sprays: Flonase (age 4 and up), Flonase sensimist (age 2 and up), and Nasacort (Age 2 and up) are examples of steroid nasal sprays that can help with nasal congestion and other nasal symptoms associated with seasonal allergies. Nasal sprays are usually given as one spray in each nostril daily. For best effects, insert the sprayer into the nose then angle it out towards the ear before spraying.
  • Eye drops: Pataday and Zaditor are examples of over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops that can help limit eye redness and itch. Eye drops should be used in children aged 3 and up. To do this, have the child lie back and put 1 drop in the corner of each eye. Even if your child’s eyes are closed, the medication will get into their eyes when they blink.
  • Other Treatments: Some children may benefit from allergy immunotherapy if their symptoms are very persistent or severe, and these children should see a pediatric allergist.

When to seek care

  • If your child is having wheezing or significant cough
  • If your child’s symptoms are not responding to the recommended treatments
  • If you are concerned

Additional Resrouces

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