For children with allergies, allergic rhinitis, or “hay fever” is the most common type. This includes runny and itchy nose, sneezing, postnasal drip and nasal congestion. Other symptoms can also be present, such as itchy, watery and red eyes and chronic ear problems.
Sometimes a child’s nose is congested so much that he breathes through his mouth, particularly when asleep. This can cause your child to not get a restful night of sleep and be tired the next day.
Allergies can lead to inflammation in the ear and can cause fluid accumulation that leads to ear infections. Allergies can also cause earaches, ear itching and popping. If this happens as a child is learning to talk, it can affect speech development.
When children go to school in the fall and spring, their allergies can become so bad that they stay home from school. If properly diagnosed and treated, allergies may not be so bad as to require sick days from school.
Make sure you give the school nurse medical information about your child’s allergies, including allergens and medications. Be sure to have an action plan in the event of a severe allergic reaction.
Allergies can affect many parts of a child’s life and many childhood problems are exacerbated by allergies. Treating their allergies can make them happier and healthier.