Spring is here and we are all looking forward to longer days and warmer weather. However, this time of year can also bring seasonal allergies for many.

There are two types of allergies, year round and seasonal. Allergy symptoms that last throughout the year are often caused by indoor allergens such as pet dander or dust mites. Seasonal allergies, or allergic rhinitis, occur when the immune system reacts to harmless substances including mold, dust mites, pet dander and pollen. In response, the body releases histamine, which can cause nasal drainage, sneezing, coughing, throat irritation, and itchy watery eyes.

Seasonal allergies are usually related to pollen from weeds, grass and trees. You may also notice that allergy symptoms are worse at certain times of day. Someone allergic to dust may have symptoms when they first wake up in the morning while someone who has a grass allergy may experience symptoms after being outside.

Because the symptoms of allergic rhinitis are similar to the common cold, it can sometimes be difficult to determine what is causing symptoms.

Questions to Consider:

• Length of symptoms. The common cold typically resolves within 2 weeks. If symptoms last longer than this, it may be time to look at allergies as a possible cause.
• Do you have a fever? Allergies do not cause a fever, so if your symptoms are accompanied by an elevated temperature, it is safe to believe you have virus.
• Do you have eye symptoms? Allergy symptoms usually include itchy, watery and irritated eyes, while the common cold does not.

To diagnose allergies, your provider may order allergy testing through a blood or skin test. Many medications and lifestyle modifications can help control allergy symptoms. See your healthcare provider if you suspect allergies or have any questions or concerns about your symptoms or condition.

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Is it a Cold or Seasonal Allergies?

Spring is around the corner and we are all looking forward to longer days and warmer weather. However, this time of year can also bring seasonal allergies for many families and children.

Seasonal allergies, or allergic rhinitis, occur when the immune system reacts to harmless substances including mold, dust mites, pet dander and pollen. In response, the body releases histamine, which can cause nasal drainage, sneezing, coughing, throat irritation, and itchy watery eyes.

Allergy symptoms that last throughout the year are often caused by indoor allergens such as pet dander or dust mites. Seasonal allergies are usually related to pollen from weeds, grass and trees. Parents may also notice that their child’s allergy symptoms are worse at certain times of day. A child that is allergic to dust may have symptoms when they first wake up in the morning while a child that has a grass allergy may experience symptoms after they have been playing outside.

Because the symptoms of allergic rhinitis are similar to the common cold, it can sometimes be difficult to determine what is causing a child’s symptoms.

Questions to Consider:

• How long has your child had symptoms? The common cold typically resolve within 2 weeks, so if your child has symptoms that last longer than this it may be time to look at allergies as a possible cause.
• Does your child have a fever? Allergies do not cause a fever, so if your child’s symptoms are accompanied by an elevated temperature it is safe to assume that they have a virus.
• Does your child have eye symptoms? Allergy symptoms usually include itchy, watery and irritated eyes while the common cold does not. Dark circles under the eyes are also a common sign of allergies in children.
• Do any of your child’s playmates or siblings have similar symptoms? If you have noticed that other children that your child has been in close contact with have similar symptoms, a virus is the most likely cause.
• Is there a family history of allergies? Allergies are more common in families with a history of allergies.

To diagnose allergies, your child’s provider may order allergy testing through a blood or skin test. Many medications and lifestyle modifications can help control allergy symptoms. See your child’s healthcare provider if you suspect allergies or have any questions or concerns about your child’s symptoms or condition.

Medical Pediatrics 0

Spring Allergies- Common Activities to Minimize Symptoms

With the spring season here and pollen in the air, there are a few daily activities you can do to minimize allergy symptoms including:

Eat healthy foods- Improper eating habits aggravate many health problems, including asthma and seasonal allergies. Foods that contain antioxidants such as fruits and vegetables can help battle inflammation which helps with controlling allergies.

Reduce stress– When you are stressed, your body releases stress hormones which sends signals to various parts of your body to prepare for actions. If this is a common occurrence in your body and there is not a physical release, the stress can affect your immune system. In addition, a weakened immune system increases your chances of allergic reactions.

Use your air conditioner– Having windows or doors open is a common way to bring allergens inside your home so instead close your windows and use an air conditioner.

Clean door mats– Cleaning your door mats prevents mites, mold, and fungus- all common allergens, from being tracked into the home.

Spring clean– Dust is a common allergen and cleaning in those tough to reach areas can help minimize allergy symptoms.

These are simple tasks you can do to minimize allergy symptoms, but if you still suffer from symptoms, seek treatment from your health care provider.