Seasonal Allergies (Allergic Rhinitis): What Parents Need to Know

As the seasons change, so do the allergens that can affect your child’s health. Seasonal allergies, also known as allergic rhinitis, are common and can significantly impact your child’s comfort, energy, and ability to focus at school or engage in outdoor activities. At Next Generation Pediatric Urgent Care, we’re here to help you understand seasonal allergies, their symptoms, and how to manage them effectively.

What are Seasonal Allergies?

Seasonal allergies occur when your child’s immune system overreacts to outdoor allergens like pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. These allergens can trigger an allergic reaction, leading to inflammation in the nasal passages and respiratory system. Seasonal allergies are most common during the spring and fall, but they can occur year-round depending on the climate and the allergens present.

Common Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies

The symptoms of allergic rhinitis can often resemble those of a cold or flu but are typically less severe and last longer. Common symptoms include:

• Sneezing

• Runny or stuffy nose

• Itchy or watery eyes

• Coughing

• Scratchy throat

• Fatigue

Unlike a cold, seasonal allergies do not cause fever, and the symptoms tend to come and go with exposure to allergens. If your child has a persistent cough or nasal symptoms lasting for several weeks, it may be a sign of allergies.

Should Parents Be Concerned?

While seasonal allergies are rarely serious, they can be bothersome and interfere with your child’s daily life. The constant sneezing and runny nose can make it difficult for kids to concentrate in school or enjoy outdoor activities. In some cases, untreated allergies can lead to more severe conditions, such as sinus infections or asthma exacerbations.

Diagnosis and Treatment

If you suspect your child is suffering from seasonal allergies, a visit to a healthcare provider is the best way to confirm the diagnosis. A thorough history and physical exam are often enough to diagnose allergies, and in some cases, an allergy test may be recommended to pinpoint specific triggers.

Treatment options include:

• Antihistamines: Over-the-counter medications like cetirizine, loratadine, or fexofenadine can help relieve symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.

• Nasal Sprays: Steroid nasal sprays (e.g., fluticasone) can help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, providing relief from congestion and runny nose.

• Decongestants: For short-term relief, decongestants like pseudoephedrine or nasal saline sprays can help alleviate nasal congestion.

• Allergy Shots (Immunotherapy): In some cases, allergy shots may be recommended for children with severe or persistent symptoms.

**Treatment plans are individualized and tailored to each patient's current symptoms and physical condition.

Prevention Tips

While it’s difficult to completely avoid allergens, there are steps you can take to reduce your child’s exposure and manage symptoms:

• Check Pollen Counts: Stay informed about the pollen levels in your area and limit outdoor activities when pollen counts are high.

• Keep Windows Closed: Keep windows closed at home and in the car during high pollen seasons to reduce exposure.

• Use Air Purifiers: Consider using an air purifier in your child’s bedroom to help remove allergens from the air.

• Shower After Outdoor Play: Encourage your child to shower and change clothes after playing outside to wash off any pollen that may have clung to their skin or hair.

• Allergy-Proof the Home: Regularly clean your home, wash bedding in hot water, and vacuum with a HEPA filter to reduce dust and pollen accumulation.

When to Visit Next Generation Pediatric Urgent Care

If your child’s allergy symptoms are interfering with their daily activities, it’s a good idea to visit us. At Next Generation Pediatric Urgent Care, we’re open 7 days a week from 11 AM to 10 PM. No appointments are necessary, and we’re here to help provide the relief your child needs.

Managing seasonal allergies may require a bit of trial and error, but with the right treatments and strategies, you can help your child feel more comfortable and enjoy their time outdoors.

 At Next Generation Pediatric Urgent Care, we’re open 7 days a week from 11 AM to 10 PM - No appointments necessary!

We're here to support you every step of the way.

Pre-Register Today(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)

Metin Yuksel, MSN, FNP-C

Provider & Nursing Coordinator