Managing Allergic Rhinitis in Children: Causes and Solutions

Q: Managing Allergic Rhinitis in Children: Causes and Solutions

Hello： According to current research, genes located in human chromosome regions 5 and 11 are responsible for the inheritance of allergies, which means that children may inherit this condition from their parents. <br>As you mentioned, changes can be made in the environment and die

Nasal allergies

Dr.
Liang: Hello, my young daughter had bronchitis when she was about six years old, and after experiencing a high fever, she has had abnormal sounds from her bronchial tubes every time the weather changes.
She also suffers from nasal allergies, waking up every morning with continuous sneezing.
Despite taking many medications, there has been no improvement, and her symptoms worsen during flower exhibitions.
I would like to ask if this condition is incurable or how it can be improved.
Additionally, I would like to know if this is hereditary, as I also have nasal allergies.
Thank you.

kines, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/05/05

Dr. Liang Hongjian reply Pediatrics

Hello: According to current research, genes located in human chromosome regions 5 and 11 are responsible for the inheritance of allergies, which means that children may inherit this condition from their parents.
As you mentioned, changes can be made in the environment and diet.
It is advisable to minimize the use of blankets, sofas, and pets at home, ensure good air circulation, reduce the presence of plush toys, use dust mite-proof bedding, and limit allergenic foods and processed foods in the diet.
Dr.
Liang Hong-jian, Pediatrician, Miaoli Hospital.

Reply Date: 2004/05/05

More Info

Managing allergic rhinitis in children can be a complex process, especially when there are underlying conditions such as asthma or a history of respiratory infections. Allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever, is an allergic response to specific allergens, such as pollen, dust mites, mold, or pet dander. It can lead to symptoms like sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose, and itchy eyes. In children, these symptoms can significantly impact their quality of life, including sleep disturbances and difficulty concentrating in school.

Causes of Allergic Rhinitis
1. Genetic Predisposition: Allergic rhinitis often runs in families. If one or both parents have allergies, their children are more likely to develop allergic conditions. This genetic link is due to the inheritance of specific immune system traits that predispose individuals to allergic reactions.

2. Environmental Factors: Exposure to allergens is a significant trigger for allergic rhinitis. Common allergens include pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds, as well as indoor allergens like dust mites, mold, and pet dander. Changes in weather can exacerbate symptoms, as seen in your daughter's case, where she experiences increased symptoms with changing seasons.

3. Respiratory Infections: Children with a history of respiratory infections, such as bronchitis, may have heightened sensitivity in their airways, making them more susceptible to allergic reactions. This can lead to a cycle where respiratory infections trigger or worsen allergic symptoms.

Solutions for Managing Allergic Rhinitis
1. Avoidance of Triggers: The first step in managing allergic rhinitis is to identify and avoid allergens. This may involve keeping windows closed during high pollen seasons, using air purifiers, regularly cleaning to reduce dust mites, and avoiding pets if they are a trigger.

2. Medications: Various medications can help alleviate symptoms of allergic rhinitis:
- Antihistamines: These can help reduce sneezing, itching, and runny nose. However, as mentioned in previous discussions, some antihistamines may not be recommended for very young children without medical supervision.

- Nasal Corticosteroids: These are effective for reducing inflammation in the nasal passages and are often considered the first-line treatment for moderate to severe allergic rhinitis.

- Leukotriene Receptor Antagonists: Medications like montelukast can be beneficial, especially if there is a concurrent asthma diagnosis.

3. Immunotherapy: For children with persistent allergic rhinitis that does not respond well to medications, allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots) may be an option. This treatment involves gradually exposing the child to increasing amounts of the allergen, which can help desensitize their immune response over time.

4. Lifestyle Modifications: Encouraging your daughter to maintain a healthy lifestyle can also help manage symptoms. This includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate hydration. Additionally, teaching her to practice good hygiene, such as washing hands frequently and avoiding touching her face, can help reduce the risk of infections that may exacerbate her symptoms.

5. Consultation with Specialists: Given your daughter's history of bronchitis and ongoing symptoms, it may be beneficial to consult with an allergist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. They can perform specific allergy testing to identify triggers and recommend a tailored treatment plan.

Conclusion
In summary, allergic rhinitis in children can be managed effectively through a combination of avoidance strategies, medications, and possibly immunotherapy. Given the hereditary nature of allergies, it is essential to monitor your daughter's symptoms closely and work with healthcare providers to develop a comprehensive management plan. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes and improved quality of life for your child.

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