Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, is a common condition that affects nearly 40 percent of children in the United States, according to the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology. Children with this type of allergy develop symptoms when they are exposed to specific allergens within the air, such as pollen. Children who develop recurrent hay fever symptoms should receive additional treatment and care from an allergist.
Nasal Congestion
The majority of children with hay fever develop nasal congestion symptoms after coming in contact with an allergen. Nasal congestion can cause affected children to sneeze or experience a runny or stuffy nose. Excess mucus within the nasal passageways can interfere with a child's ability to breathe through the nose. It may also be difficult for a child with nasal congestion to smell normally. These hay fever symptoms are typically temporary but can persist or recur if a child is reexposed to an allergen.
Cough
If a child with hay fever inhales an airborne allergen, she may begin to cough as a symptom of this allergic condition. Symptoms of cough are typically dry or hacking and may be accompanied by chest pain or discomfort. Some children may also develop an irritating or scratchy sensation within the back of the throat. If these symptoms persist or become worse, affected children should receive additional care from a medical professional.
Itchy Eyes, Nose or Mouth
Allergens within the air can cause eye, nose or mouth irritation in affected children. As a result, children with hay fever may develop sensations of itching within these body regions. If a child scratches at an affected eye, the eye may appear unusually watery, red or bloodshot. These hay fever symptoms can be uncomfortable but typically subside once a child is no longer exposed to the allergen.
References
- American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology: Tips to Remember--Rhinitis
- MayoClinic.com: Hay Fever--Symptoms
- Seattle Children's Hospital: Hay Fever (Nasal Allergies)
- American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology: Advice from Your Allergist on Rhinitis
- Breathe California: Allergies and Hayfever--What is Hay Fever?
