After a long winter of being cooped up inside, both kids and their parents look forward to the warm days of spring and summer and the return of outdoor play. But kids with seasonal allergies can miss out on the fun when sneezing, itching, and other symptoms make them feel miserable.
An estimated 7.1 million U.S. children have environmental allergies. Unlike perennial allergies that can be present all year long, such as an allergy to animal dander, seasonal allergies occur at certain times of the year. Symptoms can last for several weeks or months, depending on the allergen.
When a child is allergic to many types of plants and pollen, seasonal allergies can last through the entire summer or longer. Fortunately, kids don’t have to spend the warm weather suffering. Take a closer look at the effective options available to manage children’s seasonal allergies and minimize the symptoms.
What Causes Seasonal Allergies?
The term “seasonal allergy” typically refers to hay fever or a condition known as allergic rhinitis. Not all allergens are at their peak in spring, but the air is thick with flower, grass, weed, and tree pollens in early to late spring.
The immune systems of kids with allergies recognize these substances as a threat. To combat allergens, the body releases chemicals, including histamines, into the bloodstream. Though they are meant to protect the body, the chemicals produce allergy symptoms.
The exact source of allergens depends largely on where you live since different plants grow in different regions. In general, each season brings its own potential problems.
Spring
With so many flowers and grasses popping up in the spring, small plants are often blamed for spring allergies. However, tree pollen is largely responsible for causing symptoms in the early spring. Some of the worst offenders include cedar, willow, poplar, birch, and oak trees.
Summer
The term “hay fever” originates from the hay-cutting season, which is traditionally the summer. Hay and other grasses are the most common triggers for summer allergies.
Fall
Ragweed is considered an invasive plant in California. Not only is it an unwelcome sight for gardeners and native-plant enthusiasts, but ragweed pollen is also one of the most common fall allergens.
Several other plants that are considered weeds are also responsible for fall allergies, including nettles, mugwort, and sorrel.
Winter
Most outdoor allergens are dormant in the winter. If your child’s symptoms are active in the winter, indoor allergens may be causing the problem. Dust, pet dander, and mold are frequent allergens, along with cockroaches and dust mites.
Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies
The symptoms of seasonal allergies can be mistaken for a cold or other minor health issue. A child can be affected by more than one allergen at a time, so symptoms can overlap and appear to be more concerning than they really are. The most common symptoms include:
- Sneezing
- Fatigue due to lack of sleep
- Red, itchy, and watery eyes
- Itchy throat and nose
- An increase in ear and sinus infections
- Coughing
- Asthma exacerbation
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Behavioral issues related to discomfort and fatigue
If a child travels during peak allergy season, their symptoms could stop or worsen in a new region. For example, a child who appears perfectly healthy at home could appear to have a cold when they arrive at their grandmother’s house 100 miles away.
On the other hand, a child with seasonal allergies at home could be free of symptoms in a different location.
Diagnosing Seasonal Allergies in California
Parents may be tempted to skip medical diagnosis techniques when allergies are mild. However, medical care can not only alleviate symptoms, but it can also protect your child’s health in the long run. Some possible long-term effects of untreated seasonal allergies include chronic sinusitis, asthma, and eczema.
During an exam, a doctor will evaluate the child’s ears, nose, and throat. Skin testing may not be necessary if seasonal allergies are the only concern. If other environmental allergies are suspected, a skin test may be recommended.
An accurate diagnosis may be critical for children with asthma or other respiratory issues. Seasonal allergies can worsen asthma symptoms, and drug interactions can be a concern.
Treating Seasonal Allergies
Treatment for seasonal allergies is generally the same regardless of which pollen is causing a problem. Over-the-counter medications are enough to relieve symptoms in many cases and are available in several forms, including nasal sprays, oral antihistamines, and topical treatments.
Nasal Saline Spray
Nasal sprays flush allergens from the nasal passages and prevent them from entering the child’s system. Steroid sprays may be recommended because of their effectiveness and record of safe use.
Oral Antihistamines
Antihistamines help relieve irritation by blocking the histamines that cause symptoms. There are several brands of antihistamines available on the market. Look for “second-generation” antihistamines to alleviate symptoms without causing drowsiness or overstimulation.
If your child is taking other medications, always check the label for information about drug interactions.
Topical Treatments
Eye drops made specifically for relieving allergy symptoms contain topical antihistamines. Frequent use of these topical drops can cause the eyes to become dependent and unable to control redness naturally, though. Use artificial tears to soothe itchy eyes without the addition of antihistamines.
Immunotherapy
When symptoms are severe and don’t respond to over-the-counter options, immunotherapy may be recommended. Immunotherapy, or desensitization treatment, involves a series of injections that contain microscopic amounts of allergens.
Injecting these small doses over time helps the body build immunity and decrease allergic reactions. Some desensitization treatments can be given in tablet form.
Find Help for Your Child’s Seasonal Allergies in California
Seasonal allergies can leave your child feeling sick, tired, and grumpy. If the new growth of spring, the abundance of summer, or pollen-filled autumn breezes leave your child sneezing and coughing when they should be enjoying the great outdoors, seasonal allergies may be the problem.
At Newport Children’s Medical Group, our experienced team of pediatricians can evaluate your child’s allergy symptoms and recommend the best treatment for their individual needs. Book an appointment with us today to support your child’s wellness today!