Kids may develop allergic conditions when their immunity cells to turn hyperactive. At times, the cells may turn more hyperactive for less-harming allergens such as mites, dust, dander or pollen. Your kid’s immunity cells discharge a chemical called histamine; this chemical is responsible for reactions like runny nose, teary eyes, sneezing, or other such responses. No two allergens cause the same type of allergic reactions in your kid’s body. Thankfully, allergy medicines – known as antihistamines – are widely available. What is the most widely used allergy medicine for kids? It is a key thing to know more.
Allergic conditions cannot be cured; but the symptoms of allergies can be treated. Research studies done on allergies in kids indicates one in every 4.5 children is likely to witness seasonal forms of allergies or food-related allergic problems. Kids who witness one form of allergy are more likely to develop other allergies as well. Also, the odds are 45% to 50% for a kid to have an allergen-triggered condition if either of her / his parents are having allergies. Odds increase to more than 75% if both parents of a kid have allergies.
As per data released by the nodal agency – the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America – in short, AAFA, allergies fall under the following buckets: food-related allergies, drug-induced conditions, insect bites / stings, mold-related problems, latex-based allergies, pet-triggered and pollen-activated allergies.
Upon being exposed to any of these allergens, your kid may develop one or more allergic reactions. These include sneezing, coughing, formation of hives, runny nose, itchiness, etc. A few allergies may cause some very severe reactions such as respiratory troubles viz., wheezing or gasping, passing out, drop in blood pressure level, faster pulse rate or rapid heartbeats. If your kid experiences any of these allergic symptoms, rush to a healthcare sitting without much delay.
Allergy medicine for kids
You are advised to consult with a child specialist i.e., a pediatrician, and get needful advice for managing allergic reactions in kids. Most commonly prescribed meds belong to a class of drugs known as antihistamines; these meds are made in different forms namely, eye drop, nasal-sprays, formulations made as syrup / liquid as well as tablets.
Commonly used antihistamines are loratadine, cetirizine, etc. These drugs are known for their not-sedating properties, and hence are safer to use among kids. Beware: kids aged below 24 months are never administered these meds. The first few doses are always maintained at a lesser strength; if your kid develops adverse reactions like insomnia or anxieties, report to your kid’s doctor without any further delay.
Cetirizine is available as a liquid suspension – specially made to manage children’s allergic reactions. If your kid is less than 24 months old, talk to your kid’s treating doctor for safer options. Upon using allergy syrup made of cetirizine, your kid is likely to develop a few adverse effects; commonly experienced effects include discharge of loose stools, migraines, being nauseated and also feeling dizzy. Inform such efforts – must they show up – to your kid’s doctor.
Can allergies make you cough? Yes, allergies can cause coughing. When allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander irritate your airways, your body releases histamines, leading to inflammation, mucus production, and postnasal drip. This can trigger a dry or tickly cough. Managing allergies with antihistamines, nasal sprays, or avoiding triggers can help reduce coughing and other symptoms.
Loratadine is another anti-allergy med used for treating allergies kids develop. This med is also never administered to kids aged below 2-years. Moreover, stay aware of possible adverse outcomes / side effects like being fatigued / drowsy, upset of tummy, spells of dehydration – marked by drying of mouth and parching of your kid’s skin.
Most allergy meds made for kids are available either as a syrup i.e., liquid suspension or as a chewable tablet. A few meds can take the form of nasal sprays; these are used for treating blockages in your nasal passages. An excessive dosage of such meds can cause a few harmful outcomes.
It is always a safe thing to use allergy medicine for kids as per the advice of your kid’s caregiving team. As kids can turn more sensitive to a few meds, seek medical help if your kid starts developing any severe side effects.
Disclaimer
Information provided here are only of supplementary nature. Information shared here does not substitute a qualified doctor’s advice. This website is not suggesting intake of this drug as safe or appropriate. Hence it is advised to talk to your doctor before consuming this med or any other drug.
Education: Bachelor’s in Psychology from Stanford University; Master’s in Health Communication from Boston University. Experience: Over 12 years of experience as a health writer and content strategist, working with healthcare organizations to create patient-centric content.
