Summer allergy testing: Preparing your kids for allergy season

Why summer is ideal for allergy testing in kids

Don't miss it – summer is the best time to bring your kids in for allergy testing. Here's why:

Not peak allergy season

Since summer is not typically peak allergy season for many allergens like pollen, it provides a relatively low-allergen environment for testing. This timing allows families to address allergies without the added stress of active symptoms, which can significantly ease the testing process for children. 

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Head start on treating allergies

Getting allergy testing done in the summer allows parents to get a head start on treating allergies before allergy season begins. By identifying allergens early, parents can start implementing preventive measures and exploring treatment options to manage symptoms proactively, ensuring a smoother transition into peak allergy seasons. 

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Open schedules

With school being out during the summer, scheduling appointments for allergy testing becomes much more convenient. Without the constraints of school schedules, it makes it a lot simpler to find time to bring their children in for testing. 

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Overall, scheduling allergy testing for kids in the summer offers benefits such as proactive treatment planning, and convenient scheduling, ensuring effective management of allergies for the upcoming seasons.

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What are seasonal allergies

Seasonal allergies, also known as allergic rhinitis or hay fever, are immune system reactions to allergens that are prevalent during specific times of the year. The immune system mistakenly identifies these harmless airborne substances as threats, triggering an inflammatory response. For children, seasonal allergies can significantly affect daily activities, leading to discomfort, sleep disturbances, and even impacting school performance. Effective management often involves minimizing exposure to allergens, using medications like antihistamines, and seeking medical advice for persistent or severe symptoms.

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Common types of allergies are:

• Tree pollen
• Grass pollen
• Weed pollen
• Dust mites
• Molds
• Pet dander

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Signs of seasonal allergies in kids

Seasonal allergies in children can present a range of symptoms that can affect their daily lives and overall well-being. Common signs to look out for include:

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Sneezing: Frequent sneezing, especially in response to outdoor exposure.

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Runny or Stuffy Nose: Persistent nasal congestion or a clear, watery nasal discharge.

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Itchy, Watery Eyes: Red, itchy eyes that may also water frequently.

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Coughing: A dry, persistent cough that is often worse in the morning or at night.

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Throat Irritation: An itchy or sore throat, sometimes leading to hoarseness.

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Fatigue: General tiredness or lethargy due to poor sleep from nasal congestion.

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Dark Circles Under Eyes: Known as allergic shiners, these dark circles can develop due to nasal congestion affecting blood flow.

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These symptoms can vary in intensity and may interfere with a child's ability to participate in normal activities, highlighting the importance of identifying and managing seasonal allergies effectively.

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Diagnosing seasonal allergies in children

Diagnosing seasonal allergies in children involves a combination of clinical evaluation and specialized testing to accurately identify the specific allergens causing their symptoms. At Aspire Allergy & Sinus, we provide comprehensive allergy testing for 58 of the most common allergens to ensure a thorough understanding of each child's sensitivities. 

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Allergy testing for children:

Two common types of allergy testing are skin prick testing and intradermal testing. 

Skin testing

In skin prick testing, a small amount of allergen extract is placed on the skin, usually on the forearm or back, and the skin is then lightly pricked to allow the allergen to enter just below the surface. If the child is allergic, a small raised bump resembling a mosquito bite will appear within 15-20 minutes. 

Intradermal testing

Intradermal testing involves injecting a small amount of allergen directly into the skin, often used when prick testing results are inconclusive. This method is more sensitive and can detect weaker allergies. Both tests are generally well-tolerated by children and provide valuable information to tailor an effective allergy management plan.

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Managing allergies in kids

Managing allergies in kids can be challenging, but implementing a few tips and tricks can help alleviate symptoms and improve their quality of life:

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Limit outdoor activities during high pollen counts: Reduce exposure to allergens by keeping kids indoors when pollen counts are high, especially during peak allergy seasons.

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Keep windows closed: Closing windows at home and in the car can help prevent pollen and other outdoor allergens from entering the indoor environment.

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Use air purifiers: Install HEPA air purifiers in bedrooms and other frequently used areas to filter out airborne allergens and improve indoor air quality.

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Encourage regular handwashing: Remind kids to wash their hands frequently, especially after outdoor activities, to remove allergens from their skin and prevent them from transferring to their face and eyes.

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Shower and change clothes after outdoor play: Encourage kids to shower and change into clean clothes after playing outside to remove pollen and other allergens from their hair and skin.

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Monitor pollen counts: Stay informed about local pollen counts and plan outdoor activities accordingly to minimize exposure to allergens.

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Use hypoallergenic bedding: Choose hypoallergenic pillows, mattress covers, and bedding to create a barrier against dust mites and other indoor allergens.

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Vacuum and dust regularly: Keep indoor spaces clean by vacuuming carpets, dusting furniture, and wiping down surfaces regularly to remove allergens like dust and pet dander.

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Consult with an allergist: Consider consulting with an allergist to identify specific allergens triggering your child's symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan for long-term management.

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Seasonal allergy treatments

There are several short-term allergy treatments that can help manage children's symptoms. Over-the-counter (OTC) medications are commonly used to provide quick relief from the discomfort caused by seasonal allergies. These include antihistamines, such as cetirizine (Zyrtec) or loratadine (Claritin), which help reduce sneezing, itching, and runny nose. Decongestants like pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) can alleviate nasal congestion, while nasal corticosteroid sprays, such as fluticasone (Flonase), can reduce inflammation in the nasal passages.

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While these medications can be effective in alleviating symptoms, it's important to note that they are only temporary solutions. They work by masking the symptoms rather than addressing the underlying cause of the allergies. 

For long-term relief and management of allergies, especially in children, it is essential to consider treatments like allergy shots, drops, or ExACT Immunotherapy that aim to desensitize the immune system to allergens.

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Allergy Shots: Also known as subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT), allergy shots involve regular injections of small amounts of allergens. The goal is to gradually desensitize the immune system to these substances, reducing the severity of allergic reactions over time. This treatment typically starts with weekly injections, progressing to monthly maintenance shots, and can lead to long-term relief from allergy symptoms.

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Allergy Drops: Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT), or allergy drops, is a convenient alternative for those who prefer not to receive injections. Patients place drops of allergen extract under their tongue daily. Like allergy shots, this method aims to desensitize the immune system, offering a needle-free option that can be administered at home. It is especially suitable for children who may be apprehensive about injections.

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ExACT Immunoplasty: ExACT Immunoplasty is an advanced treatment that accelerates the desensitization process. This method involves a higher dose of allergen exposure in a shorter time frame, potentially offering faster relief compared to traditional immunotherapy. It is designed for patients seeking quicker results while still achieving long-term allergy relief. This innovative approach combines the effectiveness of allergy shots with a more efficient treatment schedule. It’s important to note that we generally use ExACT to treat patients ages 13 and up, however younger patients can be treated on a case-by-case basis. 

Frequently asked questions

Take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions about seasonal allergies in children. 

Can a child outgrow seasonal allergies?

While it is possible for some children to outgrow allergies, particularly those related to certain allergens like pollen, mold, or animal dander, it's not guaranteed for everyone. The likelihood of outgrowing allergies depends on various factors, including the severity of the allergies, individual immune system development, and genetic predispositions. Some children may experience a reduction in symptoms over time, while others may continue to have allergies into adulthood. Regular monitoring and reevaluation by an allergist can help determine if a child's allergies are improving or if ongoing management is necessary.

How do I know if it’s allergies or a cold?

Determining whether a child has an allergy or a cold can be challenging, as both conditions share similar symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, and congestion. However, there are key differences that can help parents distinguish between the two. Allergies typically cause itching in the nose, eyes, or throat, and the symptoms persist as long as the child is exposed to the allergen, often for weeks or even months. 

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In contrast, cold symptoms, which may include a sore throat, cough, and sometimes fever, usually resolve within one to two weeks. Another distinguishing factor is the presence of clear, watery mucus in allergies, whereas colds often produce thicker, yellow or green mucus.

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Additionally, if the child’s symptoms occur seasonally or after exposure to specific environments or substances, allergies are more likely the cause. Consulting with a healthcare provider or an allergist can provide a definitive diagnosis and appropriate management strategies.

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Overall, addressing seasonal allergies in children early can significantly enhance their quality of life and overall well-being. Visiting an allergist during the summer provides a strategic advantage, as it is not peak allergy season, allowing easier appointment scheduling and getting a head start on allergy treatment. By identifying and managing allergies before symptoms intensify, parents can proactively reduce their child's discomfort and reliance on medication. At Aspire Allergy & Sinus, we are committed to offering comprehensive allergy testing and personalized treatment plans to help your child enjoy a symptom-free season. Book your appointment now so that your child is well-prepared to face the upcoming allergy seasons with confidence and comfort

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