Air pollution has become a major problem in India with 14 out of the 15 most polluted cities in the world located in the country! In most metros, it manifests as smog and has become a key reason for rising respiratory allergies such as rhinoconjunctivitis and asthma.    

Such allergies have a severe impact on children and adolescents as they are still developing their respiratory system at this age. Allergic rhinitis is the most common form of allergy that affects kids. Over the last decade, with a continuous increase in airborne allergens, including dust and pollen, cases of allergies among children have increased tenfold.

The Indian Academy of Paediatrics (IAP), has noted nearly 15-20% increase in allergy patients in the last decade. According to doctors, protected upbringing of urban kids is making them prone to different types of allergies. Our diets tend to include more processed foods and less fruit and vegetables. It has been suggested that the increase in food allergy might be due to more allergenic foods, such as peanuts, in our diet.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

Symptoms

Allergic rhinitis shares symptoms with the common colds, such as frequent or continuous sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, runny nose or nasal congestion. Unlike the common cold, allergic rhinitis is an over-reaction of the immune system and not a viral infection.

Impact of Allergic Rhinitis on Children

• Difficulty in breathing.
• Impaired cognition & psychomotor development.
• Inactivity

Allergic rhinitis, also called hay fever, is an allergic reaction that causes sneezing, congestion, itchy nose and sore throat.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.

Timely Identification is Critical

• 1 in every 2 persons is uninformed about allergies.
• The severity of allergy symptoms further increases due to pollution.
• These aggravated symptoms require sustained treatment.

Pay attention as at times a child’s nose is congested to the point that he or she breathes through the mouth, especially while sleeping. This may also cause the child to not get a restful night’s sleep and then be tired the next day.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.

Prevention

• Keep your indoors clean and dust-free, avoid carpets and soft toys that can easily accumulate dust and other allergens.
• Try to minimize the dampness.
• Identify causes of allergy for your child, especially during seasonal changes.
• Ensure children wear masks while going outside if the air quality is bad.
• Use clean cooking sources with proper exhaust systems.

Newer generation medicines and lifestyle management are crucial to managing allergies. Seek medical intervention when early symptoms of allergies are detected.

Also Read: Constipation in Kids: A Research-Based Guide for Parents

Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.