Should Allergic Children Continue Medication for Respiratory Issues?

Should children with allergies take medication continuously?

My eldest son (three years and ten months) rarely caught colds in the past, and if he did, he would recover in less than a week.
However, this time both he and his younger brother (two years and two months) have been experiencing persistent runny noses and coughs, and despite taking medication, they are not improving.
The doctor mentioned it is due to "respiratory allergies." I would like to ask: 1.
"Respiratory allergies" are mostly hereditary; why did my eldest son not have "respiratory allergies" in the past and suddenly develop them now? Is the doctor's diagnosis accurate, or is it merely a guess? 2.
Since the doctor diagnosed them with "respiratory allergies," they have been on medication for over two weeks.
Currently, the two brothers are coughing less, but they still have a continuous runny nose.
Now that the medication is finished, should we continue to see the doctor for more medication, or should we refrain from medication and allow them to build their own immunity?

Richard, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/03/20

Dr. Zhao Yongkang reply Pediatrics

Hello Richard,
1.
Respiratory allergies are mostly hereditary, but the onset time can vary.
Symptoms commonly begin around the age of three, when there is sufficient exposure to allergens.
The main symptoms include chronic cough, runny nose, and nasal congestion, which tend to be more severe in the early morning or at night, and usually improve by midday.
Diagnosis is often inferred from long-term clinical observation.
2.
The fundamental treatment for allergies is to reduce exposure to allergens, such as secondhand smoke, pet dander, carpets, curtains, and humidity in the home.
Otherwise, if medication is taken to suppress sensitivity while being continuously exposed to irritants at home, symptoms are unlikely to improve.
Some patients may have persistent respiratory sensitivity, and even with environmental improvements, they may not see progress.
In such cases, it is advisable to visit a hospital for maintenance spray, which can help reduce the need for long-term medication.
I apologize for the inability of Director Zhao to respond due to other commitments, and I am replying on his behalf.
Thank you for your letter.
Best regards,
Dr.
Kang Danqi
Attending Physician, Pediatrics
Hsinchu Hospital, Department of Health

Reply Date: 2003/03/20

More Info

When it comes to managing respiratory issues in children, particularly those related to allergies, it's essential to understand the nature of allergic reactions and the role of medications. Your concerns about your older son, who has recently developed respiratory symptoms, are valid and warrant a thoughtful response.

1. Understanding Allergic Rhinitis and Its Onset: Allergic rhinitis, often referred to as hay fever, is indeed commonly linked to genetic predisposition. However, just because a child has not exhibited symptoms in the past does not mean they are immune to developing allergies later in life. Allergies can manifest at any age, and various factors can contribute to this change. Increased exposure to allergens, environmental changes, or even viral infections can trigger allergic responses in children who previously showed no signs of allergies. The diagnosis made by your physician is likely based on clinical observations and the history of symptoms, which is a standard practice in pediatric care.
2. Continuing Medication: Regarding the continuation of medication, it is crucial to consider the current state of your children's symptoms. If they have shown improvement but still experience persistent nasal discharge, it may indicate that their condition is not fully resolved. In such cases, it is advisable to consult with their healthcare provider before making any decisions about stopping medication. The physician may recommend a follow-up visit to reassess their condition and determine whether ongoing treatment is necessary.
In general, the management of allergic conditions often involves a combination of medication and environmental control measures. Antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, and decongestants are commonly prescribed to alleviate symptoms. While some parents may wonder if allowing their children to "tough it out" without medication might help them build immunity, this approach can be counterproductive. Allergies do not work like infections; they are immune responses to specific triggers. Therefore, managing symptoms effectively is crucial to improving the child's quality of life and preventing complications, such as sinus infections or asthma exacerbations.

3. Building Immunity: It is also important to note that while some children may develop tolerance to certain allergens over time, this process can take years and is not guaranteed. Therefore, it is not advisable to rely solely on the idea of "natural immunity" through exposure to allergens without medical guidance. Instead, a proactive approach that includes both medication and allergen avoidance strategies is typically recommended.

4. Consulting with Healthcare Providers: Given the complexity of allergic conditions, ongoing communication with healthcare providers is essential. If your children are experiencing persistent symptoms, a follow-up appointment can help determine the best course of action. The physician may suggest a tailored treatment plan that could include long-term management strategies, such as allergy testing or immunotherapy, depending on the severity and frequency of their symptoms.

In conclusion, while it is understandable to seek a balance between medication and natural immunity, the management of allergic respiratory issues in children should be guided by medical advice. Regular follow-ups with a pediatrician or an allergist can ensure that your children receive the appropriate care tailored to their specific needs, ultimately leading to better health outcomes and improved quality of life.

Similar Q&A

Managing Allergic Rhinitis in Children: When to Stop Medication

Hello, my child is four years old and has been experiencing a continuous runny nose since November 2010. I have consulted several doctors, all of whom have diagnosed it as allergies. I have been consistently administering the prescribed medications, but there has been no improvem...

Dr. He Ciyuan reply Pediatrics
If there are allergies, allergens such as dust mites, cockroaches, dust, dog dander, pollen, and cat dander can be tested. Some larger hospitals can test for IgE (Immunoglobulin E) and perform MAST (Multi-Allergen Simultaneous Testing), which can check for 36 types of allergens. ...

Managing Mild Allergic Rhinitis in Young Children: When to Medicate?

Hello Dr. Chen, I would like to ask about mild nasal allergies in a child who is 1 year and 8 months old. Is it necessary for them to take medication? Sometimes the symptoms resolve on their own, but there are times when the child feels something in their throat and has a light...

Dr. Chen Junliang reply Otolaryngology
Hello, Miss: For mild nasal allergies in young children, medication is not necessary. It is important to pay attention to the surrounding environment, including regular cleaning and changing bed linens. Asthma is mostly related to genetic predisposition, and factors such as colds...

Managing Allergies in Children: When to See a Specialist

My son is 7 years old and has a hypersensitive constitution. During winter, he coughs continuously, feels like he has a lot of phlegm, and breathes loudly. He also catches colds easily, and each time he coughs non-stop and wheezes. In summer, he develops clusters of rashes on his...

Dr. Huang Ruiyun reply Dermatology
For nasal symptoms, consult an otolaryngologist; for skin symptoms, see a dermatologist; and for asthma, visit a pediatric specialist. Worrying excessively about the side effects of medications may actually harm your child.

Managing Allergies in Children: Long-Term Treatment and Considerations

Dear Director Zhao Yongkang, My child (born in 1997) has been diagnosed by a doctor with allergic rhinitis and atopic dermatitis, indicating an allergic constitution. The doctor has suggested a long-term medication treatment (approximately six months). I would like to ask a few ...

Dr. Zhao Yongkang reply Pediatrics
Dear Ms. Bonnie, 1. Generally speaking, for children with allergic predispositions, the earlier a diagnosis is confirmed and treatment begins, the greater the likelihood of recovery. Of course, the long-term use of inhaled medications can improve a child's allergic conditio...