Signs That Your Child Has Seasonal Allergies

As Minnesota kids start preparing for the end of the school year, allergy season is getting ready to be in full bloom. May is usually when Central Minnesota starts experiencing higher levels of pollen in the air. This is bad news for allergy sufferers.

There are several potential culprits causing your child’s allergies including tree pollen, grass pollen, mold and dust mites.

It can sometimes be difficult for parents to recognize the differences between allergies and the common cold.

Allergy symptoms can often look similar. However, the key distinction is itchiness. Often, allergy sufferers will develop itchy, watery eyes and an itchy, runny nose.

There are a few indicators that could signal your child is suffering from allergies.

• Rubbing his/her face
• Eating with his/her mouth open
• Nasal congestion, general stuffiness
• A sinus or ear infection
• A red or itchy nose
• Watery/itchy eyes
• Trouble sleeping
• Vision problems

Unfortunately, there’s no cure for seasonal allergies. Besides medication, there are some steps parents can take to limit their child’s exposure to pollen.

• Keep home and vehicle windows closed
• Stay inside when pollen levels are high in your area
• Bathe every night to wash off pollen from your hair and skin
• Use a clothes dryer instead of drying clothes outside
• Regularly change your furnace filter

If you have questions about your child’s allergies, make an appointment to talk to your child’s doctor. Typically, allergies can be diagnosed during a physical exam.