Understanding Pediatric Environmental & Seasonal Allergies

After Hours Pediatrics Urgent Care — Trusted care, for over 25 years!
By: Dr. Joe Chow
Chief Medical Officer

At After Hours Pediatrics Urgent Care, we understand how frustrating it can be to see your child suffer from constant sneezing, itchy eyes, or a nagging cough. Environmental and seasonal allergies are very common in children and can often mimic a cold or even asthma. Knowing the signs and how to manage them can help your child breathe easier and feel better, especially during peak allergy seasons.

What Are Environmental and Seasonal Allergies?

Allergies occur when a child’s immune system overreacts to something in the environment, such as pollen, dust mites, mold, or pet dander. In seasonal allergies — often called “hay fever” or allergic rhinitis — the main culprits are tree, grass, or weed pollens that are more prevalent during certain times of the year.

Common Triggers:

• Spring: Tree pollen (like oak, maple, and birch)
• Summer: Grass pollen (like Bermuda or Timothy grass)
• Fall: Weed pollen (like ragweed)
• Year-Round: Dust mites, mold, pet dander

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms of allergies can range from mild to more severe, and they often affect the nose, eyes, throat, and skin. Common signs include:

• Sneezing and nasal congestion
• Runny or itchy nose
• Itchy, watery, or red eyes
• Coughing or throat clearing
• Postnasal drip
• Dark circles under the eyes (“allergic shiners”)
• Trouble sleeping due to nasal blockage

In some children, allergies can also worsen asthma symptoms, leading to wheezing or shortness of breath.

How Are Allergies Diagnosed?

If your child’s symptoms are persistent or seem to flare up during specific seasons, allergies may be the cause. Typically your pediatric provider may diagnose it after a discussion of your symptoms and exam. Your pediatric provider may additionally recommend allergy testing to help identify specific triggers. This could involve a skin test or a simple blood test.

Managing and Treating Allergies

Fortunately, there are many ways to help children manage their allergies:

• Avoidance: Try to limit exposure to known triggers. Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons, use air purifiers, and bathe your child after outdoor play.
• Medications: Over-the-counter antihistamines, nasal sprays, or allergy eye drops can help relieve symptoms. For more severe cases, your provider may recommend prescription treatments.
• Allergy Shots: For children with persistent symptoms that don’t respond well to medication, immunotherapy (allergy shots) may be an option.

Always consult with your pediatrician before starting any new treatment.

When to Visit After Hours Pediatrics Urgent Care

While most allergy symptoms can be managed at home, there are times when a visit to our urgent care is helpful:

• Your child is having trouble breathing or wheezing
• Allergy symptoms are disrupting sleep or school performance
• Symptoms seem like a cold but aren’t improving
• You’re unsure whether your child has allergies or another illness

We’re here evenings, weekends, and holidays when your regular pediatrician may not be available — because kids don’t just get sick during office hours.