Thursday, April 29, 2010

Achoo...it's that time of year

The month of April seems to be a bit bi-polar at times, with mood swings from sunny and warm to dreary and cold. Perhaps that's why your little one's nose is running. Or, could it be seasonal allergies? Of course, if he's under the age of two, you can probably rule out hay fever, as it rarely affects children that young.

So how do you know if your child is suffering from allergies or simply has another cold?

First of all, if there's a family history of allergies, asthma or eczema, his chances to avoid allergies just diminished.

Secondly, if you notice the symptoms getting worse on days when there's an elevated pollen count (watch the news for this info), allergies are probably the culprit.

Thirdly, if he has the following symptoms, you may want to contact your pediatrician for a referral to an allergist:
  • Rash -- any type of rash anywhere on his body
  • Constant congestion that's been going on for a week or more.
  • A normal temperature and active kiddo
  • Watery eyes he just can't stop rubbing
  • Ear infection (often associated with seasonal allergies)
It's not my intention to be the bearer of bad news...after all, maybe it is just a cold. But with all the plants experiencing their rebirth, your little one just might have inherited more than his blue eyes from you or his dazzling smile from his daddy.

Now excuse me while I go and wipe my nose...on a delicately embroidered cloth hankey, by the way. Remember, cloth isn't just for diapers and grocery bags!

Keeping you informed,

Hana

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