Environmental Allergies in Children – Allergic Rhinitis, Hay Fever & Seasonal Allergies

What Is Allergic Rhinitis in children?

Allergic rhinitis is a reaction that takes place in the nose, eyes and throat when airborne allergens trigger the release of histamine and other chemicals in the body. Special cells called mast cells release histamine, which irritates nasal tissues to cause nasal allergy symptoms. When this reaction happens in the breathing tubes of the lungs, it can cause symptoms such as wheezing or coughing.

Allergic rhinitis can occur seasonally or year-round. When someone only experiences allergic rhinitis at certain times of the year, the condition is often referred to as seasonal allergies or hay fever.

What Causes Allergic Rhinitis in a Child?

The most common causes of allergic rhinitis in children are:

• Pollen from trees, grass or weeds
• Dust mites
• Mold spores
• Animal dander
• Cockroach waste

What Are the Symptoms of Allergic Rhinitis in a Child?

Every child may experience different symptoms. Common allergic rhinitis symptoms include:

• Sneezing
• Stuffy nose
• Runny nose
• Itchy nose, throat, lips, eyes or ears
• Sore throat
• Postnasal drip
• Congested ears
• Headaches
• Nosebleeds

Also, kids with year-round allergic rhinitis may experience any of the following symptoms:

• Breathing through the mouth
• Recurrent ear infections
• Snoring
• A line or crease across the bridge of the nose from frequent wiping or scratching the itchy nose

Environmental allergy symptoms can be the same or very similar to symptoms associated with other illnesses and health problems. Always be sure to discuss your child’s symptoms with a healthcare provider to ensure a proper diagnosis.

Which Children Are at Risk for Allergic Rhinitis?

Children with other types of allergy-induced conditions, including food allergies and eczema, are more likely to have allergic rhinitis. In addition, approximately 8 out of 10 children with asthma also have allergic rhinitis. For these children, their asthma attacks are usually allergen-induced. Also, kids who whose parents have allergies are at greater risk of developing them themselves.

How Is Allergic Rhinitis Diagnosed?

In most cases, your child’s healthcare provider will make the diagnosis based on a physical exam and a review of your child’s medical history. Depending on the results of the exam, the doctor may refer your child to see a pediatric allergist, particularly if they see:

• Dark circles under the eyes
• Creases under the eyes
• Swollen tissue inside the nose

The pediatric allergist will conduct allergy testing on your child to identify exactly what is causing his or her symptoms. Testing may include any of the following:

• Skin tests
• Blood tests
• Breathing tests

How Is Allergic Rhinitis Treated in a Child?

In addition to the severity of your child’s condition, treatment will depend on your child’s set of symptoms, age and general health. Treatment options may include:

• Oral antihistamines
• Nose sprays
• Other medicines to relieve asthma symptoms
• Allergy shots

Can I Prevent Allergic Rhinitis in My Child?

While experts do not know how to prevent people from developing allergic rhinitis, you can lessen the chances of your child developing symptoms by:

• Controlling your child’s environment; for example, using air conditioning during pollen season
• Keeping your child away from pets
• Keeping your child away from areas where heavy dust, mites or molds are likely to be encountered