Allergies are pesky nuisances that disrupt an otherwise healthy body, and with nearly 2 million children enduring one or more allergies, few families are free from those sneeze attacks. From watery eyes to rashes, allergies can be a hassle to tackle.
What’s at the root of allergies? It’s partly hereditary — if a parent has an allergy or multiple allergies, most likely their child will be susceptible to them, too. So if a child is allergy-prone, their body will defend itself against the allergens that enter it. Then, once the immune system begins attacking the allergen intruders with chemicals, the chemicals then cause the body to react in different ways, such as sneezing or coughing or breaking out into hives.
With spring upon us, and there being many outdoor activities to take part in, it’s time to freshen up on what types of allergies are out there and what we know about them.
Types of allergies
1. Spring allergies
Whenever you’re outside this spring season, be on the lookout for allergy symptoms that might make life less than enjoyable for your child.
“The allergens which are outside in the early spring are from tree pollen,” says Dr. Brian Schroer, a pediatric allergist at Cleveland Clinic. “These pollens are not from the flowering trees but from trees such as oak, maple, and others which do not have large, bright flowers. The pollens in the late spring are from grass.”
For milder cases, Schroer advised sending your child outside with wraparound sunglasses to cut down on pollen problems.
Common symptoms of eye allergies:
- Itchiness in the eye area
- Redness in the white part of the eye
- Watery eyes
- Swollen eyelids
2. Summer allergies
Keep in mind that allergies don’t disappear once the sun is out full time. Symptoms can pop up in the blistering months, too.
“When it is hot and humid, the mold spores are high,” said Schroer, who recommends an over-the-counter “long-acting, non-sedating antihistamine such as loratadine, cetirizine, or fexofenadine at age-appropriate doses.” This medicine will best treat nose symptoms like sneezing and itching.
Common symptoms of summer allergies:
- Sneezing
- Itchy nose
- Eye irritation
3. Fall allergies
In the fall, you’re back to dealing with pollen from weeds like ragweed, according to Schroer.
In addition to trying OTC antihistamines to alleviate your child’s symptoms, you can also combat outdoor allergens that enter the home. “Avoidance of outdoor pollens would involve keeping your bedroom windows shut, using a HEPA filter on the central air conditioning and taking a shower when you come inside after a high-pollen day,” advised Schroer.
Common symptoms of fall allergies:
- Coughing or sneezing
- Itchiness
- Eye irritation
4. Indoor allergies
Indoor allergies can be caused by anything from dust mites to pets. Your child may also have a reaction to laundry detergents, bedding or furniture materials, household cleaners, or fragrance from candles and room fresheners. Evaluate your surroundings, and consult with your doctor if you suspect something in your home may be causing your child’s allergies.
Common symptoms of indoor allergies:
- Irritated eyes after touching an allergen
- Sneezing
- Congestion
5. Asthma
When it comes to allergic reactions involving children’s lungs, asthma could be the culprit. So keep an eye out for sudden-onset signs, whether kids are indoors or out and visit your doctor to pin down the allergen.
“Symptoms from allergens can be acute if you are exposed to a new animal or when you go outside to play sports when it is warm,” cautioned Schroer.
Common symptoms of asthma:
- Coughing that intensifies
- Wheezing when exhaling
- Feeling winded
- Experiencing tightness in the chest
6. Pet allergies
Pets are supposed to bring happiness to our lives, but they can make life tough for your child if she’s allergic.
“When you live with an allergen year-round, such as with a pet, you tend to get chronic congestion and dripping without sneezing and itching,” said Schroer.
With that in mind, it’s difficult to know if you’re allergic to your cat or dog since these furry friends are always around. Because avoidance is the biggest key to reducing symptoms, you should visit an allergist for evaluation if your child’s allergies seem chronic.
Common symptoms of pet allergies:
- Congestion
- Nasal drippage
