MORE HOME ABOUT US PATIENT RESOURCES SERVICES PATIENT EDUCATION TESTIMONIALS Asthma & Allergies NOVA Pediatrics and Young Adult Medicine Contents Patient Education Asthma & Allergies Signs & Symptoms of Allergies in Children If you feel your child is showing signs of allergies or asthma, please contact NOVA Pediatrics to schedule an appointment with one of our providers. Allergies occur when the body reacts to an outside factor - such as pollen, insect bites or stings, food, soap, pet dander, etc. - that does not cause a reaction in most other people. Allergic rhinitis is very common and is also known as nasal allergies. If allergy symptoms occur only at certain times of the year, such as spring or fall, this is known as seasonal nasal allergies or "hayfever." If allergy symptoms occur all year long, this is called perennial nasal allergies. Common causes of allergic rhinitis include, but are not limited to, pollen, house-dust mites, mold and animals. Symptoms of allergic rhinitis include runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing, itchy nose, watery or itchy eyes, scratchy throat, red eyes, darkening under eyes (known as allergic shiners), swollen eyes and dark crease below the bridge of the nose (allergic salute) Allergic reactions to food, medication or other environmental factors can result in symptoms such as tingling in the mouth; swelling of lips, tongue, face or throat; hives; and Anaphylaxis - a potentially life-threatening condition. While most allergies cannot be cured, there are treatments available to help. Prevention in order to avoid exposure to triggers is also very important. Over the counter antihistamines (Claritin, Benadryl, Zyrtec or Allegra) help to relieve symptoms of allergic rhinitis. These medications will also help relieve itching and swelling due to hives or an allergic reaction. Consult your doctor about proper usage. Additional medications, such as nasal sprays, decongestants and leukotrien blockers, such as Singulair also help with symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Some patients also begin receiving allergy shots. If you believe your child may be suffering from allergies, please make an allergy appointment to discuss symptoms and possible treatment options going forward. Asthma is an immune system reaction that affects the airways and breathing. If you have an allergy, you are more likely to develop asthma. Asthma that is triggered by an allergen in the environment is known as allergy-induced asthma. There is also a form of asthma brought on by physical activity, known as exercise-induced asthma. If you suspect your child may be suffering from asthma, please make an appointment to discuss the symptoms and treatment. Is your child showing signs of asthma or allergies? Schedule an appointment with a pediatrician at Nova Pediatrics and Young Adult Medicine in Springfield & Woodbridge, VA today! Additional Resources Allergy and Asthma Network American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America Current Patients Below are forms our current patients may need if a patient is seen for Asthma. Asthma Control Test (12+) Asthma Control Test (4-11 years old) In order to view or print these forms you will need Adobe Acrobat Reader installed. Click here to download it. WHAT WE OFFER Services Newborn Care more info Prenatal Care more info Physical Exams more info ADHD more info Immunizations more info Vaccines more info Telemedicine more info Adolescent Visits more info Breastfeeding more info Sick Child Visit more info Allergies more info Asthma more info Ear Piercing more info Anxiety more info Depression more info Wellness Visits more info OUR LOCATIONS Choose your preferred location 6120 Brandon Avenue 308, Springfield, VA 22150 703-214-6497 REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT 1483 Old Bridge Road 201, Woodbridge, VA 22192 703-253-9360 REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT Privacy Policy Terms & Conditions Accessibility Notice Contact Us NOVA Pediatrics and Young Adult Medicine, Springfield, VA Phone (appointments): 703-214-6497 Phone (general inquiries): 703-451-3333 Address: 6120 Brandon Avenue, 308, Springfield, VA 22150 NOVA Pediatrics and Young Adult Medicine, Woodbridge, VA Phone (appointments): 703-253-9360 Phone (general inquiries): 703-491-2141 Address: 1483 Old Bridge Road, 201, Woodbridge, VA 22192 4.86/5 (238 reviews)