Does My Child Have Nasal Allergies? All About Allergic Rhinitis

Nasal allergies are one of the most common conditions in kids today. Inflammation of the nasal passage occurs when a child inhales something they are allergic to, like animal dander or pollen. Nasal allergies also called “allergic rhinitis” or “hay fever,” but neither hay nor fever have anything to do with this condition.

As we approach spring in New England, allergies are often top of mind. What are some signs your child might have nasal allergies and when should you call the doctor to help them get relief from their symptoms? Connecticut Children’s Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) expert, Amy Hughes, MD, answers common questions about nasal allergies in kids.

How do I know if my child has nasal allergies?

Great question! Most of the time, allergies happen in the fall or spring (seasonal allergic rhinitis), but it can also take place year ’round (perennial allergic rhinitis). The hallmark signs of allergic rhinitis in children are stuffy nose, sneezing, runny and itchy nose, itchy and watery red eyes, and postnasal drip.

Does my child have allergies or just a cold?

It can be hard to say with so many illnesses going around from shifting patterns due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Even though both nasal allergies and colds share symptoms, there are some differences to look out for.

Your child might have seasonal nasal allergies if they have:

The above symptoms and they last longer than 10 days, which is the average course of a cold.
Symptoms that flare up during certain times of the year, like when leaves start to fall or when the pollen count is high.
One or more of the following symptoms: clear nasal discharge (not thick or discolored) stuffy nose, itchy nose, or sneezing.
Itchy skin or hives.
Noisy nasal breathing like a wheezing-type noise from the nose.

Your child might have a cold or other respiratory infection like the flu or COVID-19 if they:

Have a productive cough—this could mean thick or mucous-y, or dry or bark-y.
Have a fever along with their cold symptoms.
Have diarrhea, vomiting, body aches or other symptoms. Ask your pediatrician to rule out COVID-19 or influenza.

So, while allergies can sometimes feel like a cold and make kids generally uncomfortable, the key takeaway is allergies usually linger a lot longer and do not cause symptoms like fevers or a thick, phlegmy cough.

Can allergies cause ear pain or ear infections?

Yes, allergies can cause inflammation and fluid buildup in the ear—both of which lead to ear pain and ear infections. If you’re concerned, please call your pediatrician or ENT.

What is the best way to treat allergy symptoms in kids?

If your parental instincts tell you it’s a case of nasal allergies or allergic rhinitis, call your pediatrician. There are many over-the-counter remedies that the pediatrician may recommend—from homeopathic to FDA-approved medications like nasal sprays and oral antihistamines, but as the saying goes, “Don’t try this at home” without your doctor’s OK first!

If there’s no improvement with over-the-counter medication, they may recommend a visit to a pediatric allergist/immunologist or a pediatric ENT.