It is common to notice certain recurring symptoms in children that have no definitive cure. Doctors classify these as seasonal allergies—meaning they appear at specific times of the year and under certain weather conditions. The severity of seasonal allergy symptoms can range from mild to severe, and they are most common during seasonal transitions such as spring and autumn, especially when pollen levels are high. However, pollen is not the only trigger for seasonal allergies.
Doctors have found that seasonal allergies usually do not affect children under the age of 2 or 3. Symptoms tend to appear more frequently after that age. To shed more light on the topic, Nadormagazine spoke with pediatric allergy and asthma specialist Dr. Sameeh Shehab, who explained the causes, symptoms, triggers, management methods, and potential complications of seasonal allergies in children.
Causes of Seasonal Allergies in Children
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Weather and pollen: Seasonal allergies occur when a child’s respiratory system reacts to changing weather, particularly during spring when pollen levels increase as flowers and trees bloom. When children inhale pollen particles, their immune system may overreact, causing sneezing, coughing, and other allergy symptoms.
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Indoor triggers: Seasonal allergies may also be triggered by dust mites from carpets or house cleaning, cat saliva and fur, mold in damp environments (such as poorly ventilated rooms, clothes, or bedding), strong perfumes, cleaning agents, and cigarette smoke.
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Genetics: Children are more likely to develop seasonal allergies if one or both parents suffer from them.
Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies in Children
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Nasal congestion and sinus pressure, often leading to a red nose, headaches, and discomfort.
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Persistent runny nose, watery eyes, and frequent eye rubbing due to itching.
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Respiratory symptoms such as coughing and sore throat—closely resembling cold or flu symptoms.
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Skin-related signs: puffiness or bluish discoloration under the eyes.
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Reduced sense of smell or taste in some children.
How to Reduce Seasonal Allergy Symptoms at Home
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Wash children’s clothes immediately after returning home to remove pollen and dust.
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Avoid wearing outdoor shoes inside the house.
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Have the child shower after outdoor activities to wash off allergens.
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Keep windows and balconies closed during windy weather to prevent dust and pollen from entering.
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Use an air purifier with clean filters to reduce airborne allergens indoors.
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Encourage children to exercise indoors, such as on a treadmill, especially during windy days. Exercise helps regulate inflammatory proteins, improve nasal airflow, and reduce congestion.
Important Tips for Managing Seasonal Allergies in Children
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Prevention first: Reducing exposure to allergens is the best way to manage symptoms since seasonal allergies have no permanent cure.
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Oral antihistamines: Use only under medical supervision. These medications relieve sneezing, itching, and watery eyes. Doctors usually prescribe once-daily doses, but they may cause drowsiness.
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Nasal sprays: Saline sprays can help clear nasal passages and can be used as needed, in moderation. Steroid sprays are effective but should only be used when symptoms are present.
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Decongestants: These can relieve nasal blockage but should not be given to children under 4 years old and should not be used for more than 4 consecutive days to avoid side effects.
✨ Key takeaway: Seasonal allergies cannot be fully cured, but parents can significantly reduce their child’s discomfort through prevention, medical guidance, and careful symptom management.
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