What Age Can You Give A Baby Allergy Medicine

Ways To Treat Colds In Infants And Children

Coughs are a normal symptom of a cold and help the body clear the mucus out of the airway and protect the lungs. Non-drug treatments for coughs include drinking plenty of fluids, especially warm drinks to soothe the throat.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration offers these tips for relieving cough and cold symptoms in infants and children:

A cool mist humidifier makes breathing easier by decreasing congestion in nasal passages. Do not use warm mist humidifiers because they can cause nasal passages to swell and make breathing more difficult.

Saline nose drops or sprays keep nasal passages moist and help avoid stuffiness.

Nasal suctioning with a bulb syringe or a similar product, with or without saline nose drops, works very well for children younger than a year old. You can use them on older children, too, but they often resist bulb syringes.

Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used to reduce fever, aches, and pain. Carefully read and follow the products instructions on the Drug Facts label or talk to your pharmacist or health care provider about dosage.

Encourage children to drink plenty of liquids to stay hydrated.

What To Do If Your Baby Has Been Diagnosed With A Food Allergy

If your baby or toddler is diagnosed with a food allergy, its best to begin avoiding that specific food immediately, even if her allergic reaction isnt a serious one. Youll need to be very mindful of what foods your baby or toddler is going to eat at all times, especially if its food you didnt prepare.

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What Age Can A Child Take Allergy Medicine

Although some allergy medicines are approved for use in children as young as 6 months, the FDA cautions that simply because a products box says that it is intended for children does not mean it is intended for children of all ages. Always read the label to make sure the product is right for your childs age.

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Can Infants Take Allergy Medication

Raleigh Capitol Ear, Nose and ThroatAllergies, Allergy Skin Testing, Pediatric ENT Services

Adults arent the only ones who suffer with sneezes and watery eyes during allergy season. In fact, roughly 8.4 percent of children are diagnosed each year with the symptoms known as hay fever , according to the Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America.

Children frequently experience the same allergy problems as adultsmany of our patients are children. However, there are several safety issues that must be considered before administering any type of allergy medicine to younger children, particularly to infants.

When Kids Should Take Antihistamines

Most experts say you should take these meds before symptoms start in order to keep them at bay.

Ask your pediatrician whether you should give your child allergy medicine:

Before bed.Allergy symptoms are often worse between 4 a.m. and 6 a.m. If you give them medicine before they go to sleep, it could control their morning symptoms.

Before allergy season. If your child is allergic to pollen, you may want to start an antihistamine before pollen season, for 3 to 10 days.

All the time. If your little one has year-round allergies, they may need to take allergymedication regularly to prevent symptoms.

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The Best Allergy Medicines For Kids Include A Nasal Spray Or Medications Taken By Mouth But They Are Not Safe For All Age Groups

Story by: Sara Sidery on August 25, 2022

If your child has seasonal allergies, you may be wondering what is the best over-the-counter allergy medicine for kids. According to allergists, the medication that can offer the best relief likely depends on a childs age and symptoms. Generally speaking, nasal steroid sprays tend to be the best daily medication to treat allergies and have the widest therapeutic benefit.

What To Do If Your Baby Has Spring Allergies

Your little ones runny nose has not let up for several days. The poor baby keeps sneezing and rubbing her itchy, red, watery eyes. Instead of suffering from a cold, your baby may be suffering from seasonal allergies.

Seasonal allergens affect lots of children, although newborn seasonal allergies are rare. These types of allergies tend to develop after a cumulative exposure to particular allergens. Newborns dont tend to spend enough time outdoors to develop reactions to ragweed, grass or tree pollen. Of course, that being said, allergies can develop in children at any age, so if you notice newborn allergy symptoms, call your pediatrician.

Symptoms of Allergies in Babies and Toddlers

If your child is suffering from seasonal allergies, they may have all or some of the following symptoms:

• Itchy eyes, throat and/or nose
• Puffy, red or watery eyes
• Dry, hacking cough with clear mucous
• Mouth breathing
• Trouble sleeping

Relieving Seasonal Allergy Symptoms in Young Children

The best way to relieve the symptoms of seasonal allergies in babies and toddlers is to try to avoid allergens whenever it is possible. A few tips include:

If seasonal allergy symptoms still persist, your pediatrician may recommend a safe over the counter or prescription antihistamine or nasal spray.

When to Call Your Pediatrician at Pediatric Partners

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Childrens Zyrtec Allergy Syrup

• Use only enclosed dosing cup specifically designed for use with this product. Do not use any other dosing device.
• Always ask a doctor before giving a cough or cold medicine to a child.
• Find the right dose on the chart below.

DO NOT TAKE more than directed. Taking more than directed may cause drowsiness.DO NOT GIVE this medicine to a child younger than 2 years old.DO NOT USE if carton is opened or if carton tape or bottle wrap imprinted “SAFETY SEAL®” is broken or missingIN CASE OF OVERDOSE, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center on 1-800-222-1222 right away. Urgent medical attention is required even if you do not notice any signs or symptoms.

Use Of Children’s Allergy Medicines

Overall, 55% of parents with children 6-12 years of age reported giving allergy medicine to their child within the past year. Of these parents, almost all gave these medicines to treat allergy symptoms, and around half gave them to prevent their child from having symptoms.

Most parents used allergy medicines labeled for children, but one in seven parents gave their child allergy medicine that was labeled for adults. Of those using the adult medications, one-third gave their child the dose recommended for adults and two-thirds gave a partial adult dose. Overall, 21% of parents reported that it was hard to figure out the right dose of allergy medicine for their child.

Parents frequently reported giving their child allergy medicines they already had in the house and also purchasing new medicines . About one in five parents did not check the expiration date for medicines they already had in the house before giving them to their child.

Parents most commonly received advice from their doctors office about which allergy medicine to give, but over a third got advice from a pharmacist. Fewer parents cited friends or family members as their source on which medicine to give. Only 21% of parents were aware that over-the counter-allergy medicines usually contain the same ingredients as cold medicines.

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Important Information To Remember About Toddler Allergy Medication

One of the most important aspects to remember is to work closely with us. As the areas leading experts in all aspects of pediatric ear, nose and throat issues, were in a unique position to help you by creating a treatment that is tailored to what your child needs. Talk to us before giving your toddler allergy meds because children are often more sensitive than adults to many medications.

Its also important to realize that even though some over-the-counter products say that they are safe for children, that does not mean that it is intended for children of all ages. We encourage you to carefully examine the label.

Often, different products may have the same active ingredient, although they are marketed to treat different symptoms. While you may think you are purchasing products to treat different symptoms, in actuality, all these medicines may have the same ingredients. As a result, your toddler may receive too much of a certain type of medication.

Benadryl Products For Children

There is a variety of Benadryl allergy medications formulated for children aged 6 or over.

Products include Childrens Benadryl Dye-Free Allergy Liquid, Childrens Benadryl Allergy Plus Congestion, Childrens Benadryl Chewables, and Childrens Benadryl Allergy Liquid. These are usually safe to give to children aged 6 and above.

Never give children any medications, including Benadryl, that are designed for adults. Dosages in adult medicines are higher than in childrens medicines, so giving adult dosages to children might lead to an overdose.

It is usually safe for children aged 12 onwards to take adult Benadryl products, but always check the directions on the labels.

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The Type Of Antihistamine To Be Used

Antihistamines can be sedating and non-sedating. Sedating antihistamines such as Diphenhydramine for kids > 2 yrs old may cause drowsiness so its therefore recommended that kids not be engaged in a lot of strenuous play during the duration of the treatment.

On the other hand, for patients using non-sedating or no-drowse antihistamines such as Cetirizine , activities may be continued as usual.

Diagnosing Allergies In Babies And Toddlers

Keep a diary of your little one’s symptoms — what they are and when they happen — to help the doctor figure out what kind of allergy your child has and how to treat it.

You may need to take them to an allergist . They’ll ask about symptoms and personal and family health history. Be sure to tell them when symptoms happen, like after meals or during specific seasons.

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How Can I Prevent Allergic Reactions In My Child

Allergies are the most common health issue among American children, and asthma is the third-ranking cause of hospitalization among kids under 15.

You can help prevent allergic reactions you child by keeping in mind the following:

Triggers

• Identify triggers and eliminate or avoid them, if possible.
• Avoid exposure to pollen and outdoor mold by staying inside with the windows closed during problematic seasons and be aware that pollen counts are generally higher in the afternoon.

Humidification

• Run a humidifier or vaporizer in your childs bedroom and play area.
• Ensure that the humidifier is thoroughly cleaned and determine whether the use of the humidifier increases or helps your childs symptoms.

Hydration

• Encourage your child to drink more clear fluids, which will help thin out the mucus.
• The following guidelines are a good rule of thumb for water intake:
• Children between ages 2-5: 12-18 ounces per day.
• Children between ages 5-12: 18-24 ounces per day.
• Children between ages 13-18: 32-48 ounces per day.

Nasal saline rinse

• Use saline nose drops made with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1 cup of water, or use commercially available saline drops.
• Put 2 drops in each nostril and leave for several minutes before getting your child to blow their nose. Repeat, as needed, 3-4 times a day.
• Mucus in younger children can be suctioned away with a bulb syringe, but dont suction too frequently or it could cause the congestion to worsen.

Diet

Environment

Pollen

Allergy Help For Infants

Nasal saline is the safest and one of the most effective treatments for allergies.

Most over-the-counter allergy meds are considered safe for kids 2 years of age and older. Oral antihistamines like Claritin , Zyrtec , and Allegra are available OTC in kid-friendly formulations. These meds help with sneezing, itching, eye irritation, and runny nose.

In addition, Benadryl is an OTC antihistamine that is safe for children to take.

Nasal steroid sprays like Flonase and Nasacort are approved for use in kids 2 years of age and older. Rhinocort is approved for kids 6 years of age and older. These meds help with nasal congestion and other allergy symptoms. These meds should be used with caution in kids, as some studies have shown a small risk of growth restriction.

Oral decongestants like Sudafed should not be used in kids younger than 12. Nasal decongestants like Afrin can be used with caution and sparingly in kids 6 and older.

If child is less than 2, consult one of our ENTs or a pediatrician. For kids between 2-6, schedule an appointment with one of our ENTs or a pediatrician if OTC meds are not working within 1-2 weeks.

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Is Benadryl Safe For Infants

Most people, whether they have children or not, are familiar with Benadryl and its use as an over the counter allergy medicine. However, if you are a parent, you might have questions about when it is appropriate to give your child Benadryl and if Benadryl is safe for infants. As with any over the counter medication, you should consult a medical professional before giving it to your child for the first time, even if its something as common as Benadryl. Lets take a look at what this medication is used for and whether or not Benadryl is safe for infants.

Norton Childrens Allergy & Immunology

Our allergists personalize each childs care based on specific allergies and symptoms.

Cetirizine tends to be the most fast-acting medication that can take effect in as little as one hour but it also carries the highest potential for drowsiness. Loratadine can take up to three hours to take effect and may cause minor drowsiness. Fexofenadine can take effect within two hours and also is completely nonsedating. All three medications last for around 24 hours.

Although diphenhydramine is a well-known antihistamine, it is no longer recommended as a first-line treatment for allergies due to having more severe side effects, including sedation and overdose.

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An Infant’s Exposure To Allergens May Lead To Asthma And Allergies Later On Here’s What You Need To Know About Baby Allergies

A baby’s first sniffles can be scary and confusing, especially when everyone from the nurse at your pediatrician’s office to your mother-in-law spouts conflicting opinions. Most of the time symptoms like runny nose, rash, upset stomach, or crankiness especially if they’re short-lived are the result of a cold or another passing ailment. However, in some cases the cause is allergies.

When baby has an allergic reaction, it’s the result of an inappropriate response by his immune system. The immune system is programmed to fight off illness, but sometimes it reacts to a harmless substance, like pollen, as if it were an invading parasite, virus, or bacteria. To fight back, the immune system overproduces protective proteins called antibodies. This overproduction causes swelling and inflammation of tissues the nasal passages, for example. Your baby’s allergic reaction can recur whenever he’s exposed to whatever triggered it.

The tendency to get allergies is hereditary, but specific allergies are not. For example, if you’re allergic to penicillin, your child may develop allergies although he might not be allergic to penicillin.

Giving Children Cough And Cold Medicines

Over-the-counter medicines are available to treat cough and cold symptoms. The FDA doesnt recommend OTC medicines for cough and cold symptoms in children younger than 2 because they could cause serious and potentially life-threatening side effects. Manufacturers voluntarily label these cough and cold products to state: Do not use in children under 4 years of age.

Numerous OTC cough and cold products contain many ingredients that can lead to accidental overdosing. Learn about what drugs are in a product by reading the Drug Facts label.

Nonprescription cough and cold products can be harmful to children if:

• They get more than the recommended dose or take the medicine too often.
• They take more than one product containing the same drug. For example, taking both a pain reliever containing acetaminophen and cough and cold medicine containing acetaminophen.

How can you be sure to give the correct dose? The FDA encourages drug manufacturers to provide a dosing instrument, such as a syringe or a cup, marked with the correct measurements. Use themand not household spoons or tools from other medicationsto measure medication.

Dont give children medicines that are packaged and made for adults because adult medicines may overdose a child.

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Allergic Reactions In Babies

The good news is, in general, infants arent prime candidates for seasonal allergies. Theyre more likely to experience food allergies or skin allergies. Allergies, just like asthma, are also most likely to appear around age 4 and are more likely if a parent has allergies or asthma.

Common signs of allergies in children are the same as those you might see in an adult:

• Either a runny or stuffy nose
• Inflamed, itchy, or rash-covered skin
• Ear infections or discomfort

If you suspect your child has severe allergies, youll want to speak to a pediatrician, especially if your child is below the age of 4.

When To Give A Toddler Allergy Medicine

You should follow the label closely to determine the best time to give your toddler allergy medicine. Often, giving the medicine before bedtime can help alleviate morning symptoms.

If pollen gives your child trouble, consider starting it around 3 to 10 days before allergy season is in full bloom.

However, before you start giving your child a regular regimen of allergy medicine, take decisive steps to change your environment to minimize the impact these seasonal allergies have on their life. For example:

• Close windows during pollen season
• Wash your pets after theyve been outsideoften our furry friends will carry pollen in from outdoors
• Be sure to use washable area rugs
• Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter
• If possible, change clothes after being outsidethis will keep you from bringing allergens into your home

In some cases, this may be enough to provide some allergy relief.

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