Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies

Spring can be a miserable time for infants and children who suffer from seasonal allergies. Allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, affects nearly 40 percent of children in the United States. The symptoms may at first seem like a cold, but they are actually brought on (and worsen) with exposure to allergens, including tree pollens, grasses, and weeds.

The most common symptoms of allergies include:
• stuffy or runny nose (drainage will be clear)
• sneezing
• itchy, watery eyes
• sore throat
• morning cough
• allergic salute
• allergic shiners—dark circles under the eyes caused by nasal congestion


It is important to recognize and treat allergy symptoms in your kids, because uncontrolled allergies can lead to secondary sinus infections, ear infections, and asthma attacks. Uncontrolled allergies also can lead to irritability and poor concentration in school.