Springtime & Sneezes: Understanding Pediatric Allergies

As flowers bloom and trees turn green, many kids start experiencing symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, and runny noses. Welcome to spring allergy season! If your child seems to come down with a “cold” every spring, allergies might actually be the cause. (Of course, they could still have a cold too).

What Are Spring Allergies?

Spring allergies are also called seasonal allergic rhinitis or hay fever. This happens when a child’s immune system overreacts to allergens in the air, especially pollen from trees, grasses, and flowers.

What are Some Common Allergy Symptoms in Kids?

Allergy symptoms can show up differently in each child, but here are some common ones:

Sneezing (a lot!)
Stuffy or runny nose
Itchy, red, or watery eyes
Coughing or throat clearing
Itchy ears or nose

How Do I Know if it’s Allergies or a Cold?

*Symptom*	*Allergies*	*Cold*
Fever	❌ No	✅ Sometimes
Itchy eyes	✅ Yes	❌ Rare
Sneezing	✅ Frequent	✅ Sometimes
Duration	Weeks or longer	7–10 days
Mucus color	Clear	Often yellow/green

If symptoms linger for more than 10 days and come back around the same time each year, allergies are very likely. If you, as the parent, have allergies and you are experiencing your allergy symptoms at the same time as your child, then your child might also have allergies too.

Can Little Kids Have Allergies?

Yes! Allergies can start at almost any age, though they’re more common after age 2. However, before the age of 6 months, seasonal allergies are incredibly rare as the body needs to experience the allergens for a season before they can develop the allergies.

How Can You Help Your Child During Allergy Season?

1. Limit Exposure

Keep windows closed during high pollen days.
Have your child shower and change clothes after playing outside.
Use an air purifier in their bedroom.

2. Track Pollen Levels and avoid high level days outside

Check daily pollen forecasts (weather apps often have them).
Plan outdoor time when levels are low (usually after rain or later in the day).

3. Use Medications if Needed

Antihistamines (like cetirizine or loratadine) can help with sneezing and itching.
Avoid Benadryl as it is sedating and no longer recommended as the first line for seasonal allergies.
Nasal sprays may be recommended for congestion.

- Always talk to your child’s doctor before starting any new medications.

4. Talk to a Specialist

If symptoms are severe or year-round, your pediatrician may refer you to an allergist for testing or further treatment options like allergy shots. However, if its seasonal and well controlled with symptom management then testing is not usually necessary.

Spring allergies can be incredibly frustrating—but with the right tools, they don’t have to slow your child down. Don’t hesitate to ask your child’s Doctor for help because every child deserves to enjoy the sunshine—without the sniffles. 🌞