Children and Hay Fever

Hay Fever is a condition that can affect everyone, even the children. Although there are many similarities between children and adults in regards to hay fever, the differences are very important to be aware of, especially if you're a parent. 

So what's similar? 

Well, children often have similar presenting symptoms (rhinitis, sneezing, stuffy nose, sore throat etc). Another thing very important to keep in mind is the similarities of the triggers. For children, often triggers include dust, pollen, mold, pet dander and more. Therefore treatment in avoiding these triggers is the same as for an adult. (for more information on this please see previous blog entry). Pharmacological treatment is very similar as well and most of the same medications have indications for children doses on the backs of the packaging. Common medications recommended for children allergy relief include Claritin and Singulair. Keep in mind that it is important to discuss new medications for a child with a doctor and to ensure accurate dosage.

So what is different?

Many children are often predisposed to other conditions, ie asthma and eczema. Therefore hay fever symptoms may often exacerbate the symptoms of these conditions. This could be especially dangerous with asthma because inadequate oxygenation may occur.

Also, children are at a higher risk for otitis media, also known as a common ear infection. This occurs from the congestion in the sinus passageway. The reason that children have a higher risk of this is because of the passage (Eustachian tube) connects into the nasal passageway. In younger children the tube in more horizontal as opposed to the more diagonal route of an adult Eustachian tube. As a result, it is easier for it to become infected and inflamed.

Lastly, because the development of a child is crucial and much of this is done at school, it is important to address the symptoms of hay fever in a child. Not only are the symptoms bothersome, but also it can actually impede in the learning process and worsen attention. Hay fever can even decrease self-esteem with the constant concern about how their symptoms are affecting their schoolwork and it’s affect on the body.

Final Notes

Like all hay fever sufferers, it is important to address the symptoms and take care of them. With children these this need even increased. Make sure if you think your child has hay fever visit your doctor to have him/her evaluated and see what treatment is appropriate.  

Check out http://www.keepkidshealthy.com/welcome/commonproblems/hayfever.html

Cold or Allergies

Cold and Allergies- How do I tell the difference

It’s that time of the year where everything is seeming to bloom and be harvested, but it is also the time where there seem to be more sick friends and coworkers poping up as well. As you start to sneeze and your congestion builds up that tickle in the back of your throat keeps you wondering- am I sick? Or is it just allergies?

Colds are infections caused by viruses and the classical symptoms of the cold are caused by the immune system attack on the contagious pathogens. These symptoms are the occurring because the body is doing what it should be to get rid of this harmful organism invaded.

Allergies on the other hand, and as explained in previous posts, are the body’s hypersensitive response to a harmless stimulus, or allergy, which the immune system recognizes as a danger. Allergies are not contagious and continue as long as the allergen is present.

So how do we know the difference? 

If you are still not sure what you have don’t hesitate to call a physician to check it out. Also, try to avoid possible allergy triggers to see if symptoms improve.  This can even be taken a step further by taking an allergy medication, such as a Claritin to see if symptoms are alleviated. Do you have a history of allergies? Have you had allergies before and does this feel similar or different? These may be signs that you are the allergy sufferer. On the other hand if nothing seems to be helping, the cold is the more likely cause. For colds, also think about anyone you know who has recently fallen ill or that anyone you associate with has after you. Do you work in a place with children, sick people, or just a high volume of public exposure?

Either way symptom relief is the treatment you are most likely to go with for either way. If you suspect a cold, and for just regular health promotion, make sure to wash your hands often, cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough, and carry hand sanitizer around. Also for a cold, get adequate rest, drink plenty of fluids, and possibly try some OTC medications for symptom relief. As for allergies symptom relief can be taken from a variety of medications and avoid the allergy triggers. Make sure that you talk to a doctor before you start any medication regimes or plans.