All over the country, spring has officially sprung, bringing April showers, blooming May flowers, and delivering dreaded seasonal allergies. While warm spring temperatures and longer days are celebrated and enjoyed, for millions of children, springtime can be a miserable experience.
Sneezing, itchy eyes, and runny noses can interfere with school, play, and sleep. This guide will help you understand how to recognize and treat seasonal allergies in kids and explain when it’s time to consult a doctor.
What Are Seasonal Allergies?
Seasonal allergies happen when a child’s immune system overreacts to substances in the environment that are typically harmless. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 5 children under 18 years old has seasonal allergies.
Common allergens include:
- Tree pollen
- Grass pollen
- Weed pollen
- Mold spores
- Dust
- Animal dander
Recognizing Allergy Symptoms
The American Academy of Pediatrics explains that allergy symptoms in children can range in severity, and your child may have one or several symptoms. Examples of seasonal allergy symptoms include:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Itchy nose or throat
- Dark circles under the eyes (“allergic shiners”)
- Frequent throat clearing
- Coughing, especially at night
Unlike colds, allergies do not cause fever, are not contagious, and typically last longer than 10 days.
Home Treatment Options For Seasonal Allergies In Kids
While triggers of seasonal allergies are impossible to avoid altogether, there are steps you can take to help minimize exposure and hopefully decrease symptoms. The Mayo Clinic recommends several tips to help manage seasonal allergies:
Reduce Exposure To Allergens
- Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons
- Have children shower and change clothes after playing outside
- Use air purifiers with HEPA filters in your home
- Check daily pollen counts and limit outdoor activities when counts are high
- Wash bedding weekly in hot water
- Use allergen-proof mattress and pillow covers
Medications Can Help Fight Seasonal Allergies
If you feel like reducing exposure isn’t quite enough, there are at-home and over-the-counter treatments you can try. Before starting any medication, always consult with your child’s doctor to ensure the medication is age-appropriate, properly dosed, and will not interfere with other medicines.
- Antihistamines: Help reduce sneezing, runny nose, and itchiness
- Nasal steroid sprays: Reduce inflammation in the nose
- Decongestants: Can provide short-term relief for stuffy noses (not recommended for long-term use)
- Eye drops: Relieve itchy, watery eyes
- Saline nasal rinses or sprays can help clear mucus and allergens
- Drinking plenty of water helps thin mucus secretions
We have written an entire guide on allergy medicines for kids, which will hopefully help your child manage the symptoms of their seasonal allergies.
When to See a Doctor About Seasonal Allergies In Kids
If you feel like your child is continuing to struggle, a trip to their primary care provider or an allergist may be appropriate. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, you should consult a healthcare provider if:
- Over-the-counter treatments aren’t helping
- Allergies interfere with daily activities or sleep
- Your child has trouble breathing or wheezing
- Allergies lead to frequent sinus infections or ear infections
- Your child has asthma along with allergies
If your child’s battle with allergies isn’t improving and over-the-counter medications aren’t working, your doctor might recommend allergen testing, prescription medication, or immunotherapy (allergy shots) for severe cases.
Long-term Management For Seasonal Allergies
With proper management, most children can effectively control seasonal allergy symptoms. Please work with your child’s healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that fits their specific needs.
Remember that seasonal allergies can change as children grow. Some children outgrow their allergies, while others may develop new ones over time.
By understanding the triggers and treatment options for seasonal allergies in kids, you can help your child enjoy all seasons comfortably and healthily.
The information provided is for educational purposes only. It should not be a replacement for medical care or advice. This info is not intended to diagnose or replace medical treatment. Consult your doctor if you have any questions about your child’s seasonal allergies or potential allergies. If they are experiencing an emergency, contact 911 or transport them to the nearest emergency room.