Allergies

Sunday, July 18, 2010

Fall ragweed season will soon be here. Children who have had allergy symptoms in the fall should begin their preventive medications (if needed) in mid-August.

The symptoms of seasonal allergies may include sneezing, itchy nose/throat/eyes, clear runny nose, nasal congestion and watery eyes. Some children will experience occassional hives (welts) related to allergies as well.

Fortunately, we have several tools to help prevent or decrease symptoms from allergies. If the symptoms are very mild, no treatment may be necessary. If the symptoms are causing more signficant problems, here are some of our recommendations:
1. Minimize exposure to outdoor allergens during peak pollen counts by keeping windows in your home closed.
2. Remove pollen from your child after playing outdoors by bathing him or her and rinsing his/her eyes if possible.
3. Give a daily dose of a second generation (non-sedating) antihistamine such as Zyrtec or Claritin (or generic equivalents) as needed during the season. Claritin is approved for children ages 2 years and up (5 mg once daily for ages 2-6yrs, 10 mg once daily for ages 6 yrs and up). Zyrtec has been approved for infants as well. Dosing is 2.5-5 mg once a day for ages 12-24 mos, 2.5-5 mg for 2-6 yrs, and 5-10 mg 6 and up. (The lower doses can be given if it is sedating for your child). These medications are now over-the-counter and will help with eye symptoms, clear nasal drainage and itchiness. Benadryl (or generic) is also an option but it does tend to be sedating and needs to be given every 4-6 hours. There is also now a prescription strength over-the-counter eye drop for allergies (Zaditor) approved for children over the age of 3 years.
4. Contact us for an appointment if your child is not improving with the above measures.
5. Hives can be treated with over-the-counter antihistamines as well.