Allergic rhinitis in children

As a parent, discovering that your child is grappling with allergic rhinitis can be concerning. This guide aims to shed light on the condition, from its origins to practical strategies for relief.

The Culprits - Identifying Allergens

Allergic rhinitis is an immune system response to specific allergens. Common triggers include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold spores. Identifying these culprits is the first step in managing your child's symptoms.

What are the symptoms ?

Sneezing and Runny Nose: Frequent sneezing and a perpetually runny or congested nose are telltale signs.

Itchy Eyes and Throat: Children may express discomfort through itching, especially around the eyes and throat.

The Energy Drain: Persistent symptoms can lead to fatigue, impacting your child's overall energy levels.

Does it spread to other kids?

Allergies can run in families and more than one person may be affected. This is because of the genetic basis of this condition. Allergic rhinitis is not contagious; one cannot catch allergy by living in the same household.

Why is it important to treat allergic rhinitis?

It is important to treat allergic rhinitis to prevent complications such as snoring, poor sleep, day-time fatigue, and reduced attention span. Poorly controlled allergic rhinitis may lead to asthma or make asthma control difficult as the nose and lungs are connected.

How do I manage the triggers?

Identify and Control Triggers:

· Allergens and irritants, known as "triggers," can induce allergic symptoms. Recognize and manage these to minimize exposure.

Indoor Triggers:

· Common Culprits: Dust, incense sticks, kitchen smoke, mosquito coil fumes, strong deodorants, and perfumes.

· Hidden Threats: Fungus over damp walls, house dust mites on toys, upholstery, furniture, carpets, and bedding.

· Pet-Related Allergens: Dried saliva from licking pets' fur can cause allergic reactions.

Cigarette Smoke:

· Smoking, even passively, poses a severe threat. Eliminate cigarette smoke from indoor spaces.

Outdoor Triggers:

Seasonal Pollens: Grass and weed pollens.

Environmental Factors: Vehicle smoke, construction activities, and festivities like fire-crackers during Diwali and colors during Holi.

Creating a Trigger-Free Home:

Smoke-Free Zone: Eliminate cigarette, kitchen, mosquito coil, and incense stick smoke.

Pet Care: Regularly bathe pets, treat for fleas, and consider avoiding them if possible.

Clean Living Spaces: Regularly wash bedcovers in hot water, avoid rugs or carpets, limit furry soft toys for children, and clean hard surfaces with a damp cloth.

Maintenance Routine: Regularly clean appliances, bathrooms, showers, doors, and windows.

Dietary Freedom in Allergic Rhinitis:

• No Specific Restrictions: There are no stringent dietary restrictions for children with allergic rhinitis.

• Enjoy a Balanced Diet: Children are encouraged to enjoy a balanced and varied diet to ensure proper nutrition.

• Avoid Junk and Processed Foods: The exception is avoiding junk and processed foods, promoting healthier eating habits.

· Boosting Immunity with Seasonal Foods:

• Include Seasonal Fruits and Vegetables: Encourage the consumption of seasonal fruits and vegetables. These foods contain essential micronutrients like vitamins and minerals that support the immune system.

· Considerations for Some Children:

• Possible Food Allergies: Some children might have associated food allergies.

• Consultation is Key: The decision to exclude specific foods due to sensitivities should be made after consulting with a doctor.

Consult your pediatrician if?

· Frequent symptoms lasting for at least 4 days in a week or infrequent symptoms lasting for a month or more 

· Greenish-yellow nasal discharge 

· Child unable to sleep peacefully in night because of his symptoms 

· Child has to miss his school or unable to play with friends due to his problems. 

· Associated coughing, breathing difficulty or musical sounds from chest 

· Watery eye discharge with itching

·  Bleeding from nose 

· Ear discharge or pain

·  Change in voice 

· Headache

Cold syrups contain medicines and hence must not be taken by the parents themselves without consultation with a doctor.

Permanent cure?

Many kids outgrow allergies as they grow up, and symptoms might fade away in adulthood. Medicine can help control allergies, supporting the body's natural process of outgrowing the condition. It's crucial to follow the treatment plan to manage and potentially overcome allergies

Immuno-therapy as an Option

This involves gradually exposing the person to allergens identified as problematic. Immunotherapy can change the course of the disease and might provide long-term relief. Before considering immunotherapy, consult a pediatrician or allergy specialist. Understand the benefits and risks.

Identifying and addressing allergies early on is crucial for successful treatment.

References:

1. Bousquet, J., et al. (2008). Allergic Rhinitis and its Impact on Asthma (ARIA) 2008 update.

2. Brozek, J. L., et al. (2017). Allergic Rhinitis and its Impact on Asthma (ARIA) guidelines—2016 revision.

3. Scadding, G. K., et al. (2017). BSACI guideline for the diagnosis and management of allergic and non-allergic rhinitis.

4. Parental guidelines by Indian Academy Of Pediatrics