Subscribe to get free news, tips and updates. Adolescent Problems Hayfever Allergic rhinitis, or hayfever, is a common problem in infants and children. The most common symptoms include a stuffy or runny nose with clear drainage, sneezing, itchy eyes and nose, sore throat, throat clearing and a cough that may be worse at night and in the morning. These symptoms usually occur during certain times of the year for people with seasonal allergies , corresponding to being exposed to outdoor allergens, such as tree pollens, grasses and weeds. Other people may have perennial allergies , with symptoms occurring year round from exposure to indoor allergens, such as dust mites, pets, second hand smoke and molds.
Allergies do run in certain families and are more common in children that have asthma or eczema.
It is also more common in children that are exposed to second hand smoke, air pollution and pets. Having uncontrolled allergies can put your child at risk for getting a secondary sinus infection, ear infections, and for having poor concentration at school. It can also make asthma symptoms worse. The best treatment for allergies is to avoid what your child is allergic to by following the environmental controls described below. Although food allergies are considered to be rare, if you notice that your child's allergy symptoms always get worse after being exposed to certain foods, then you should avoid those foods.