Kid Tips - Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever)

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Hay fever (allergic rhinitis) often occurs seasonally in spring or fall, although it sometimes occurs perennially (throughout the year). Symptoms might include itching, nasal stuffiness or blockage, clear nasal discharge, post nasal drip, watery eyes, and sneezing. Some patients also experience nose bleeds (epistaxis), muffled hearing due to fluid in the middle ear, and nasal polyps.

Symptoms generally follow exposure to allergens. Sometimes the seasonality of symptoms can yield a clue as to the cause. For example, house dust and dust mite exposure occurs year-round, with worsening of symptoms in the winter, when windows are closed to stay warm and the dust builds up inside the house. Pollen from trees often peaks in the spring. Grasses pollinate in late spring and ragweed in the fall. Other common triggers of allergic rhinitis include animal dander, mold, perfume, paint, and cigarette smoke.

Treatment

There are many treatment options. First and foremost, identify the allergens that trigger your child’s symptoms and avoid them as much as possible. This might seem to be a difficult task, but it is not impossible. It mostly requires awareness and imagination.

There are many medications available for these symptoms.

• Antihistamines treat the itching, sneezing and discharge. They come in many strengths, forms, and combinations. Some are available only by prescription, while others are available over-the-counter (OTC).
• Nasal corticosteroids treat the itching, discharge, stuffiness and blockage. They are available in many forms by prescription.
• Nasal cromolyn is available over-the-counter as a nasal spray that relieves the itching, sneezing and discharge. It is more effective when used before symptoms start. It is very effective in preventing future symptoms. It may be used with other medications.
• Nasal ipatropium is another medication, available by prescription, that is effective in controlling nasal discharge.

Contact your physician's office if you see any of the following:

• Your child has symptoms of allergies that you cannot control with over-the-counter medications or your child's prescription medication at home.
• You have any other concerns or questions.
  
  

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This patient education handout provided courtesy of the
University of Kansas Department of Pediatrics.
Copyright 2003-2006 KU Pediatrics. All rights reserved