Allergies
Posted on Apr 5, 2010 -Symptoms of allergies can include clear nasal discharge with sneezing, sniffing and nasal itching. Eyes that are watery, itchy and puffy can also be symptoms of allergies. Other symptoms can include tickling, scratching sensation in the back of the throat, hoarse voice, itchy ear canals and skin, ear and sinus congestion. Allergy symptoms do not include fever, if your child is running a fever they are likely suffering from a viral or bacterial illness. See fever sheet for more information on fevers.
Most common pollens that cause allergy symptoms are grass tree and ragweed. Common allergens can be freom cats, dogs, horses , rabbits and other animals.
HOME CARE ADVICE FOR SEASONAL ALLERGY SYMPTOMS
Controlling the allergy symptoms are key to keeping your child comfortable
many medications are available over the counter and are very helpful in relieving allergy symptoms if taken daily for two months or longer during the period that symptoms are present. If the medication causes drowsiness, giving the medication at bedtime can be helpful.
Benadryl, Claritin and Zyrtec are over the counter allergy medications that are safe for children age 6 and over if taken according to package directions. If your child is under age 6 contact your physician to discuss which medication will be best and what dose is best for your child.
-Other ways to help alleviate symptoms include
-warm water or saline nose drops (2-3 drops in each nostril) followed by blowing the nose- to make saline mix 1/2 teaspoon salt to one cup warm water- do nasal washes at least 4 times per day
- having your child bathe or shower at night before going to bed
- Having your child put on clean pajamas after bathing and going to bed each night with clean clothes and sheets will keep your childs symptoms at bay by keeping pollens out of the bedroom- keep bedroom windows closed and vaccuum carpet regularly
-Change your air filter regularly
-avoid window and attic fans
- keep windows and doors closed during pollen season
-stay indoors on windy days if possible will also be helpful.
CALL THE DR WHEN:
-your childs symptoms aren't controlled in 2 days with continuous antihistamines
-your child becomes worse
