How To Determine Allergic Rhinitis In Your Child

Is your child getting paroxysmal bouts of sneezing? If he does, do you usually see him trying to wrinkle his nose because of itchiness? Or do you observe regular clear watery discharges from his nostrils? Be advised! It is the classic presentation of rhinitis.

Rhinitis is an inflammation of the lining of the nose, characterized by nasal congestion, rhinorrhea or clear watery nasal discharge, sneezing and nose itching. If there is a strong family history of allergy in the family, allergic kind of rhinitis should be strongly considered. Seasonal allergic rhinitis, otherwiseknown as hay fever is commonly seen in children and adults who are sensitized to pollens of trees and grasses. Perennial allergic rhinitis has symptoms that occur all through the year.It is caused by allergens which the individual is constantly exposed to such as home dust mites, pet danders, feathers and pets. Food allergens can additionally be the offending agent.

A child with allergic rhinitis has airway blockage due to boggy edema of his nasal mucus membranes. Signs or symptoms involve frequent sore throats, dryness of the mouth, snoring, and a nasal quality tot the voice. Interestingly, a child or even an adult with allergic rhinitis can be recognized based on their skin characteristics and mannerisms.

1. Rabbit nose. It is a mannerism by the child trying to wrinkle his nose because of itchiness.

2. Allergic salute. A mannerism by the kid referring to the upward or sideways thrust of the palm of the hand against the tip of his nose once watery rhinorrhea and itchiness are significant.

3. Transverse crease. That pertains to the horizontal ridges at the junction of the tip of the nose and the more rigid bridge. Recurrent mannerisms of rabbit nose and allergic salute lead to the formation of the crease.

4. Allergic shiners - These are darkish circles below the eyes due to venous stasis resulting from blood flow obstruction brought on by the edema of the nasal mucous membranes.

5. Mouth respiration - Due to nasal obstruction, the kid is obligated to breathe in the mouth. A lot of the time afterwards he keeps his mouth slightly open, and this can result in mouth dryness.

Recognition of these facial features can help in the diagnosis of allergic rhinitis. As soon as suspected, the child ought to be brought to a physician for parent/child education regarding allergic rhinitis, allergen avoidance and pharmacotherapy.


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