Your Child's Sniffles: Is it Allergies?

health

Your Child’s Sniffles: Is it Allergies?

By Alpro Pharmacy

June 4, 2024

Allergies Explained

Think of your body’s immune system as a highly sensitive security system designed to protect against threats. For most people, pollen—a fine powder produced by trees, grasses, and flowers—is harmless. However, for those with allergies, pollen acts as an allergen, mistakenly triggering the immune system to react as though it is defending against a dangerous intruder. This reaction is similar to an overactive alarm system going off in response to a harmless visitor.

Common Symptoms in Children

While children are known for their boundless energy, certain symptoms can slow them down and may point to allergies. These include:

Runny nose: This isn’t just a sign of a cold. If it’s clear and persistent, allergies could be the cause.
Sneezing: Frequent, sudden bouts of sneezing are a hallmark of allergic reactions.
Itchy, watery eyes: If your child is constantly rubbing their eyes, it could be a response to allergens in the air.

It’s important to remember these symptoms can also indicate other conditions, making it tricky to decipher the cause without professional help.

Common Misconceptions about Allergic Rhinitis

Myth: Allergic Rhinitis Is Rare in Children

Fact: Allergic rhinitis is quite common among children, affecting up to 40% of school-aged children. It comes in two forms: perennial, which occurs year-round and is often caused by indoor allergens like dust mites, mould, and pet dander, and seasonal, typically linked to outdoor allergens such as pollen.

Myth: Allergic Rhinitis Is Just Like a Cold or Flu

Fact : Though they share symptoms like runny and blocked noses and sneezing, allergic rhinitis differs from colds or the flu. It is an allergic reaction, while colds nd flu are viral infections. Therefore, allergic rhinitis persists as long as the allergen remains in the environment, unlike colds or flu, which typically resolve within a few days.

Myth: Allergic Rhinitis Isn’t a Serious Condition

Fact: Symptoms of allergic rhinitis can become more severe if not treated early and promptly. It can also impact the children’s school performance, participation in sports, and sleep quality. Symptoms like itchy skin rashes and watery eyes can distract from studies, while nasal congestion can disrupt sleep.

Myth: Medication Alone Can Solve All Allergy Issues

Fact : While medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays can significantly alleviate the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, they do not cure the underlying allergy. Effective management often involves a combination of treatments, including avoiding exposure to allergens. It’s important to work with a healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that may combine medication with other strategies to manage exposure and symptoms.

Allergic rhinitis can persist for as long as the individual is exposed to the allergen, making it last much longer than conditions like the common cold or flu. If you notice your child’s cold symptoms are longer than usual, it’s wise to consult a healthcare professional. The healthcare professionals can provide a proper diagnosis and discuss treatment options, including medications or lifestyle adjustments to manage or reduce the symptoms.

Don’t let allergies hold your child back. With the right care and management, they can lead a happy, healthy life free from the nuisance of constant sniffles and itchy eyes.

Need More Information? Talk to Our Expert!

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Alpro ePharmacy or visit the nearest Alpro Pharmacy. Our team, consisting of pharmacists, doctors, physiotherapists, nutritionists, audiologists and dietitians, is ready to assist and provide support.