Spring is here, and that means so is tree and grass pollen! Millions of Americans suffer from seasonal allergies every year, so this time of year may not be as welcomed by these folks.

You can develop seasonal allergies at any point, but most people have their first flareup before age 20. That means it is certainly possible for your young children to develop seasonal allergies.

If you are trying to determine if your child is experiencing seasonal allergies, read on as our AFC Urgent Care Ballantyne team explains more below.

When Do Allergies Start?

Typically, seasonal allergies don’t appear until you are at least 2 years old. After that, you can develop them at any time! Even if your children don’t currently have them, it doesn’t guarantee that they never will. If your child has seasonal allergies, it means that his or her body interprets pollen to be an intruder and launches an immune response when exposed to it.

Histamine is released into your child’s system to help rid the pollen from his or her body. This is why a runny nose, itchy eyes and sneezing are common symptoms to experience. This can be why it is hard to tell the difference between colds and allergies!

Colds Versus Allergies

• Allergy symptoms appear at the same time every year.
• A change in environment reduces symptoms.
• Body aches indicate a cold.
• Watery eyes indicate allergies.

How Can I Help My Child Find Allergy Relief?

Allergy symptoms can vary from year to year, depending on how prevalent certain types of pollen are in the air. One year your child might have a really hard time, and the next, his or her symptoms might not even be noticeable. However, seasonal allergies can’t be cured. The best way to support your child is to fully understand what triggers his or her symptoms and minimize exposure to them.

In addition, OTC allergy medication can be really helpful in reducing overall symptom severity. If you need assistance determining what medication is right for your child, come see us! We can evaluate your child and help come up with the most comprehensive treatment for him or her.

Common Seasonal Allergens in Children

• Tree pollen
• Grass pollen
• Ragweed
• Mold

Seasonal allergies can be frustrating! Let us help you feel better at AFC Urgent Care Ballantyne.