THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: If your child sneezes a lot or if the nose is often stuffy or running, or if her eyes, mouth or the skin often feels itchy, then she could be affected with allergic rhinitis. Allergic rhinitis is commonly known as Hay Fever. But it has nothing to do with hay or regular fever.
What can trigger the symptoms?
Irritants like, cigarette, smoke, strong odors, cosmetics, detergents, car exhaust and other air pollutants.
Why does the child get allergic rhinitis?
A child develops this when the body’s immune system becomes sensitized and overreacts to something in the environment that typically causes no problem in most people.
What problems can children have due to this?
It can be associated with decreased concentration and focus, limited activities, irritability, sleep disorders, fatigue. Many parents also say that their children are moody during allergy season.
What should you do for your child ?
Meet an allergist at the earliest. Allergist can dig out a detailed history and look out for clues in the life style that will pinpoint the cause of symptoms.
Is there any test for the diagnosis?
The allergist may recommend a skin test, where small amounts of suspected allergens are applied on the skin of the child’s arm. It is easy, sensitive and the least expensive way of identifying allergens.