If your child deals with allergies, summer doesn’t always offer relief. In fact, for many kids, summer can bring its own set of triggers — and myths.
On this episode of ParentingU, Theron McCormick, MD, pediatric allergy and immunology specialist with Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Health, breaks down what parents really need to know about managing kids’ allergies during the warmer months.
Understanding Summer Allergies
Dr. McCormick explains that summer allergies are often caused by grass pollen, which is more prevalent during the warmer months.
“When you go to the summertime, you’re really talking about the predominant pollen that’s in the air,” he says. “We have really hot days, so air quality is already going to be an issue with ozone and particulate matter, but pollen in particular is going to be more grass pollen.”
Distinguishing Allergies from Other Illnesses
Dr. McCormick provides tips on how parents can distinguish between allergies and other common illnesses.
“When you’re dealing with allergy symptoms, it’s rubbing their nose a lot, sneezing a lot, a lot of clear running nose,” he says. “Those are children who are not really suffering from fever, their activity level is still about the same.”
Preventing Allergy Flare-Ups
To help prevent allergy flare-ups, Dr. McCormick recommends starting preventive medication before the allergy season begins.
“Taking an antihistamine one to two weeks prior to going into that season can also be helpful.” He also suggests keeping an eye on the pollen count and planning outdoor activities accordingly.
“Maybe plan that activity midday or early evening, but not too late in the evening when ozone pumps up,” he says.
Non-Medical Measures to Reduce Allergies
In addition to medication, Dr. McCormick shares several non-medical measures that can help reduce allergy symptoms.
“When you walk into the home, take your shoes off,” he says. “You bring in a lot of debris and a lot of pollen on your shoes and on your clothing.”
He also recommends changing your bedding frequently and drying clothes indoors. “Fresh air is fresh air, but you’re also bringing in fresh pollen,” he says.
Taking a shower or bath and washing hair will also reduce the pollen in your home.
How to Choose the Right Allergy Medicine
With so many options available, choosing the right allergy medicine can be overwhelming. Dr. McCormick advises starting with the age of the child and their ability to take different forms of medication.
“If your child is able to take a pill or chewable or liquid, start with that and then look down that pathway.”
There isn’t much difference between the various oral antihistamines that most families use, such as Claritin, Zyrtec and Allegra. These three are quite standard and interchangeable.
Rapid dissolvable tablets are convenient for children as they dissolve quickly in the mouth, providing faster relief. However, they are often sold out quickly, harder to find and sometimes a bit more expensive than liquid forms. Liquid antihistamines come in different flavors, making them more suitable for younger children.
Dr. McCormick also debunks the myth that children can become immune to allergy medications, explaining that it’s more likely their symptoms are overpowering the medication.
Another option to consider: intranasal antihistamines. These are actually more effective than oral antihistamines, although they can be a bit bitter. The nasal spray starts working within 10 to 25 minutes, and at most 30 minutes. It lasts for 12 to 24 hours and is very effective in reducing runny nose, congestion and sneezing. The over-the-counter option available right now is azelastine.
Debunking Allergy Myths
Dr. McCormick addresses several common allergy myths, including the belief that local honey can help with allergies.
“The allergy link is not true,” he says. He also discusses the limited effectiveness of elderberry for allergy symptoms.
Managing Allergies While Traveling
For parents traveling with children who have allergies, Dr. McCormick recommends packing a travel kit with essential medications.
“Bring the nasal spray, bring nasal saline with you, bring your antihistamine and bring some type of pain reliever,” he says.
Summer can be a challenging time for children with allergies, but with the right preventive measures and treatments, parents can help their children enjoy the season safely.
