About 30 percent of the United States population is affected by
allergies each year. As we venture into allergy season, how can
parents
determine that their child, like so many others, has allergies?
"Children with allergies often times experience sneezing,"
says
Dr. Jay Portnoy, section chief, Allergy/Asthma and Immunology at
Children’s Mercy Hospitals and Clinics. "These children may also
experience a runny nose with clear to yellow drainage, and itchy
watery
eyes,"
There are three main seasons for allergies: Spring (March and
April)
is tree pollen season; Early Summer (May and June) is grass pollen
season; and Fall (August and September) is weed season – mainly
ragweed. Molds tend to be present from April through October.
"Children two and under are less likely to develop allergies,
but if they do, these children tend to be sensitive to perennial
allergens such as dust mites, mold and animal dander," says Dr.
Portnoy. "Between the ages of two and six, kids tend to develop
seasonal allergies. After that, they are likely to remain allergic for
decades."
Following are recommendations Dr. Portnoy suggests to help
your
child conquer their allergies.
- See your allergist.
- Over-the-counter antihistamines can be tried, but they can cause
drowsiness and reduced school performance. Nonsedating antihistamines
are affective, but they are available only by prescription.
- If an antihistamine does not soothe your child’s allergies, a nose
spray may be added to give additional help against allergies.
- Allergy shots are effective and should be considered if allergy
symptoms last more than six months per year, if the allergy
medications
do not soothe your child’s symptoms, or if there are undesirable side
effects.
"Remember to get your child treated now, so they will have a more
enjoyable, allergy-free spring and summer," says Portnoy.
