Some pediatricians are using these nonsedating antihistamines before FDA approval in children between 2-6 years of age. We also have new medicines that are used in a nasal spray. These are anti-inflammatory medications, those that contain cromalyn sodium which prevents inflammation of the nose. And we also use intranasal steroids that have a strong anti-inflammatory effect. The advantages of using nasal sprays means there is very little body absorption, only acting on the nasal passage.
Parents are often concerned about using steroids in children.
There is very little systemic absorption eliminating any of the drawbacks of using a liquid form of steroids. The referral to an allergist is not just so a child can go to receive allergy shots. In fact, the most important reason is to use the allergist's expertise and experience in skin testing to diagnose specifically what is causing the allergy in order to decrease the exposure of the child to that allergen. It must be mentioned that allergies do run in families, and that is an important clue as to whether or not the child's condition is an allergy. Allergies must also be thought of in children who have other co-existing diseases such as frequent recurrent upper respiratory infections, repeated bouts of sinusitis, chronic ear infections, persistent cough, and asthma.