Telltale Signs Of Seasonal Allergies In Children

Parents often have a lot of trouble figuring out whether their children are suffering from seasonal allergies; the reason for this is because the signs and symptoms of seasonal allergies in children are very closely related, even the same as, symptoms of other very common child illnesses.  Knowing whether the problem is seasonal allergies in children or whether the source of symptoms lies elsewhere is important for effective management of seasonal allergies in children.  Here, you can learn about some of the more common, tell-tale signs and symptoms of seasonal allergies in children.  This is information you can use to treat and relieve symptoms of seasonal allergies in children at home, and to note for further discussion of diagnostic and treatment options with your child’s pediatrician or family physician.

Signs And Symptoms Of Seasonal Allergies In Children

Seasonal allergies in children often go undiagnosed for a long time because many times they act the same and arrive at the same time as viral infections and common colds which carry the same types of nasal symptoms.

Common symptoms of seasonal allergies in children include:

• Red and/or itchy eyes
• Watery eyes
• Watery or runny nose
• Congestion
• Sinus pressure and congestion
• Itching in the throat and/or mouth
• Persistent cough—caused by post nasal drip and irritation (not all coughs are colds!)
• Chronic rubbing or itching of the nose—which often results in a red line across the lower bridge of the nose—one of the most telltale signs of seasonal allergies in children!
• Frequent sniffling
• Snorting and snoring
• Difficulty breathing
• Fatigue (often caused by lack of sleep due to symptoms)

While many of these symptoms are the same as common child illnesses, there are some differences you can look for as well.

• Colds and illnesses normally run their course in 10-14 days; when symptoms persist longer, suspect allergies or consider looking for a secondary sinus or ear infection.
• Allergies do not cause fever, but colds and illnesses do; if fever is present, the cause is not allergies.
• Allergies do not cause aches and pains like colds do, so achiness is probably the result of an illness.

Also, seasonal allergies in children will occur during the times of year when allergens and pollens are being produced.  When symptoms occur at or around the same time year after year, suspect allergies.  It should be noted however that seasonal allergies in children can exist to a number of different allergens, so your child might be symptomatic for most if not all of the year if they have allergies to several substances.

Tips For Diagnosing Seasonal Allergies In Children

Of course, only a doctor is qualified to diagnose seasonal allergies in children, but proper diagnosis of seasonal allergies in children is important; with proper diagnosis, you and your child’s doctor can devise a management plan to control your child’s seasonal allergies and minimize their impact on your child’s health and social and academic life.  These tips can help you collect and communicate the information your doctor will need for accurate diagnosis of seasonal allergies in your child.

• Keep a journal of your child’s symptoms (both apparently allergy-related and illness related)
• Note the times (of year and times of day) and frequency of symptoms
• Note how long symptoms last and how long between recurrence
• If you opt to use over-the-counter medications, note the difference (or lack of) the drug makes on symptoms—but know that some decongestants will also improve congestion due to colds
• Try eliminating and reducing exposure to suspected allergens and note the effect
• Note any secondary symptoms and illnesses including wheezing and sinus or ear infections
• Note changes in your child’s activity level, mood, interest, and ability to participate normally

Once you have collected some information about your child’s symptoms, schedule an appointment with your child’s doctor.  Together, you’ll be able to decipher the symptoms and determine what the true cause of your child’s symptoms is, and together, you and your child’s doctor can work to devise a treatment plan to help manage seasonal allergies in your child.

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