Q. My 5- year-old daughter had such terrible spring allergies last year. is there anything I can do to prevent the same symptoms this year?
When a person with allergies is exposed to an allergic trigger such as pollen, the body releases chemicals called leukotrienes and histamine. these chemicals then cause the symptoms we classically associate with allergies: sneezing, itchy watery eyes and runny nose.
Most conventional allergy medications target these chemicals to prevent allergy symptoms. Allergy medications are most effective if started prior to the allergen exposure, ideally one to two weeks before allergy season, says the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.
Pollen counts can vary depending on climate and weather. in the Southeast, tree pollen will be on the rise in late February; therefore, spring allergy sufferers need to start taking their allergy medications now to get the maximum benefits.
If your child’s allergies were poorly controlled last spring, then this would also be a good time to visit the pediatrician or allergist and review her treatment plan. when pollen counts are high, it is also important to bathe children after playing outside and to keep car and house windows closed to reduce pollen exposure.
If allergy symptoms persist, allergy shots (immunotherapy) may be recommended. for more information about spring allergies and local pollen counts visit aaaai.org .
Dr. Patt is a pediatrician with Charlotte Pediatric Clinic and president of the Charlotte Pediatric Society. she blogs for MomsCharlotte.com. E-mail questions to living@charlotteobserver.com and put “pediatrician” in the subject line.
Subscribe to the Charlotte Observer.