Allergic rhinitis, commonly referred to as seasonal allergies, hay fever, or nasal allergies, is characterized by various symptoms including itchy and watery eyes, sneezing, and sinus-related issues. When pollen, mold, or dust enters the body through the nose or mouth, it causes an allergic reaction known as an inhalant allergy. The immune system plays a crucial role in protecting the body against harmful bacteria and germs. However, there are instances when the immune system mistakenly perceives pollen or allergens as more threatening substances, leading to an immune response. This response can trigger the release of cells that cause inflammation as well as substances that mediate inflammatory response.
Consequently, the nasal passages, sinuses, and eyes experience swelling, accompanied by additional symptoms like coughing, sneezing, and excessive tearing of the eyes. These symptoms occur as the body’s way of eliminating or preventing the allergens from entering further. A paediatric otolaryngologist helps to identify allergic rhinitis in children and treat it to ease the discomforting symptoms.
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What are the types of pediatric allergic rhinitis?
Allergic rhinitis is typically categorized based on the frequency and intensity of symptoms and episodes. An ENT doctor can develop a treatment strategy tailored to their specific classification in order to effectively manage nasal allergy symptoms and provide relief.
The frequency of allergic rhinitis refers to how often your child experiences symptoms, and it is divided into two categories: intermittent and persistent.
If a child has symptoms less than four days a week or for less than four weeks in a year, they would be diagnosed with intermittent allergic rhinitis. On the other hand, if the child’s symptoms occur more than four days a week or persist for more than four weeks in a year, they would be diagnosed with persistent allergic rhinitis.
By determining the frequency of symptoms, the doctor can better understand the nature of your child’s condition and develop an appropriate treatment plan to alleviate their symptoms effectively.
What is the severity of allergic rhinitis in children?
The extent to which a child’s nasal allergies affect their quality of life can assist the doctor in assessing the severity of the condition. Severity is classified into three categories: mild, moderate, or severe.
Mild allergic rhinitis refers to a level where symptoms do not significantly disrupt daily activities or sleep patterns.
Moderate to severe allergic rhinitis, on the other hand, indicates symptoms that interfere with sleep, daily routines, participation in sports or leisure activities, and school attendance. In some cases, it can even trigger more serious symptoms like asthma attacks.
By understanding the severity of the child’s nasal allergies, the doctor can gain insights into how the symptoms impact their overall well-being and develop an appropriate treatment plan to alleviate their discomfort and minimize the disruption to their daily life.
What are the indications and symptoms of pediatric Allergic Rhinitis (Nasal Allergies)?
- Nasal congestion or a blocked nose
- Frequent sneezing
- Excessive nasal discharge or a runny nose
- Drainage of mucus from the back of the nose
How is nasal allergy diagnosed in children?
The diagnosis of pediatric allergic rhinitis involves several crucial steps, starting with an allergy work-up. This process encompasses a comprehensive assessment of the patient’s medical history, a physical examination, and, when deemed necessary, allergy testing.
Gaining a thorough understanding of the patient’s medical history is a vital aspect of the diagnostic process. The doctor will inquire about any recurring symptoms, their duration, and potential triggers. They will also explore the family’s medical history, as allergic rhinitis can have a genetic component.
Following the medical history evaluation, a physical examination will be conducted to assess the patient’s nasal passages, throat, and other relevant areas. This examination aims to identify any physical signs or abnormalities associated with allergic rhinitis.
Allergy testing may be recommended depending on the findings from the history and physical examination. This testing can involve various methods such as skin prick tests, blood tests, or allergen-specific IgE testing. These tests help identify specific allergens that may be causing the allergic rhinitis symptoms.
By combining the information gathered from the medical history, physical examination, and allergy testing, medical professionals can make an accurate diagnosis. This enables them to develop a targeted treatment plan to alleviate the symptoms and improve the child’s quality of life.
What are the causes of allergic rhinitis?
Symptoms of allergic rhinitis manifest when an individual comes into contact with substances to which they have an allergic reaction upon inhalation. These substances, commonly referred to as allergens, can include:
Dust:
Particles from dust mites, which are tiny organisms found in household dust, can trigger allergic rhinitis symptoms in susceptible individuals. These symptoms may include sneezing, nasal congestion, and itchy, watery eyes.
Mold:
Mold spores, which are microscopic fungi present in damp environments such as basements or bathrooms, can act as allergens. Inhalation of mold spores can lead to allergic rhinitis symptoms, including nasal itching, sneezing, and a runny nose.
Pet dander:
Allergic reactions to pet dander, which are small flakes of skin shed by animals like cats and dogs, are a common cause of allergic rhinitis. Symptoms can include nasal congestion, sneezing, and itching.
Pollen:
Various types of pollen, such as those from weeds, grasses, and trees, can trigger allergic rhinitis symptoms, particularly during specific seasons. Breathing in these airborne pollen can lead to symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny or stuffy nose.
When individuals with allergic sensitivities encounter these allergens, their immune system reacts by releasing histamines and other chemicals, leading to the onset of allergic rhinitis symptoms. Recognizing these common allergens can help individuals identify potential triggers and take necessary measures to manage their symptoms effectively.
How is allergic rhinitis treated?
Your child’s ENT doctor will collaborate with you to create a comprehensive treatment strategy that specifically targets your child’s nasal allergy triggers. The treatment plan may incorporate the following components:
Environmental trigger control:
Measures will be recommended to minimize exposure to allergens in the child’s environment. This can involve strategies such as regular cleaning to reduce dust and mold, using air filters or purifiers, and implementing proper pet dander management.
Symptom management medication:
Medications will be prescribed to help alleviate and manage the symptoms of nasal allergies. These may include antihistamines to reduce allergic reactions, decongestants to relieve nasal congestion, or nasal corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.
Immunotherapy:
Immunotherapy is a SAFE and effective treatment to desensitise the body against common allergens such as the three types of house dust mites which live in Singapore. House dust mite allergy is the top cause for nasal allergies, allergic asthma and skin allergies like eczema.
