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In children, allergic rhinitis (AR) often signifies the emergence
of respiratory illness and completion of the shift from food-borne
to inhalant allergen sensitivities. Children experience AR
differently from adults. In fact, AR is often misdiagnosed
due to symptoms that differ from those seen in older patients.
Symptoms that may present in children with AR include1,2:
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Cough
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Sore throat
-
Nasal voice
-
Halitosis (bad breath)
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Weakness
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Wiggling, wiping, rubbing, and pushing of the nose (also
called the “allergic salute”)
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Nasal crease caused by “allergic salute”
-
Rings under the eyes (also called “allergic shiners”)
AR facts and figures
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Overall, AR is estimated to affect 20 to 40 million Americans3
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Allergic rhinitis is very common among children. Estimates
show that 42% of children are diagnosed with it by their
6th birthday4
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In children, AR is often associated with a range of comorbid
disorders, including1:
- Recurrent otitis media
- Sinusitis
- Asthma
- Sleep disorders
- Behavioral and learning disorders
Why you should know the true cause
It’s
important not to confuse allergic and non-allergic rhinitis.
The symptoms are very similar, but different etiologies require
different treatment.5 Generally
50% of all rhinitis is allergic, 50% non-allergic.5 Confirmed
knowledge of underlying atopic disease allows the incorporation
of avoidance measures and other allergy-based therapies (such
as non-sedating antihistamines).2 History
and physical alone yield a correct diagnosis of allergic disease
only 50% of the time,6 so
objective evidence is required. Click
here to learn how
specific IgE testing can help you taccurately diagnose and
manage AR.
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