Seasonal Allergies in Babies

Seasonal allergies such as grass and pollen may affect babies. Babies may experience uncomfortable symptoms when exposed to seasonal allergens. Determining what allergens are mostly affecting a baby require medical testing. In the case that allergens are to blame for the baby's symptoms, antihistamines may be used to alleviate symptoms.

Allergens

• Allergens are substances that the body perceives as harmful. Thus, the body attempts to attack the allergen. Seasonal allergies are typically caused by grass and pollen.

Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies

• Babies with allergies may have ongoing or intermittent symptoms. Symptoms may include watery eyes, runny nose, stuffy nose, sneezing and cough. Allergies symptoms are different from cold symptoms in that they last longer and the mucus that runs from the nose is thin and clear.

Allergy Seasons

• Babies may be allergic to one or more types of pollen and grass. Different types appear in the summer, fall and spring.

Diagnosis

• A skin test can determine what allergens are affecting the baby. A skin test is performed by exposing the child to several allergens and then watching the skin to see which ones cause a reaction. The test may have to repeated annually, since often allergies in children change over time.

Treatment

• Prescription antihistamines are available to treat allergies in babies 6 months and older. Parents should never give babies an over-the-counter allergy medication with a doctor's approval.