Red flags & when to go in person for Seasonal Allergies (Allergic Rhinitis) in Children

Audience: pediatric

Seasonal allergies, also known as allergic rhinitis, are common in children and cause symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. These symptoms often happen during certain times of the year when pollen or mold levels are high. Many children can manage these symptoms at home with simple measures and over-the-counter medicines. However, some signs mean your child needs to see a healthcare provider in person. These include difficulty breathing, high fever, or symptoms that do not improve with usual care. Telemedicine can help assess mild symptoms and provide advice, but it cannot replace an in-person exam when serious issues arise. Knowing when to seek urgent care helps keep your child safe and comfortable.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Difficulty breathing or wheezing — seek emergency care immediately.
• High fever above 38°C (100.4°F) lasting more than 48 hours — see a healthcare provider in person.
• Severe facial pain, swelling, or signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or lips — get urgent medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessment of mild seasonal allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.
• Providing advice on allergen avoidance and symptom management.
• Recommending over-the-counter medications appropriate for children.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Evaluation of severe breathing difficulties or wheezing.
• Assessment of high or persistent fever.
• Diagnosis and treatment of suspected severe allergic reactions or infections.
• Physical examination requiring in-person assessment.

What Are Seasonal Allergies in Children?

Seasonal allergies happen when a child's immune system reacts to pollen, mold, or other outdoor allergens. Common symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose, itchy eyes, and sometimes coughing. These symptoms usually occur during certain seasons, especially spring and fall.

When to Use Telemedicine for Seasonal Allergies

Telemedicine can be a helpful way to discuss your child's allergy symptoms with a healthcare provider. It is useful if your child has mild symptoms like a runny nose or sneezing without other serious signs. The provider can suggest treatments, such as antihistamines or nasal sprays, and give advice on avoiding allergens.

Red Flags: When to See a Healthcare Provider In Person

Some symptoms require prompt in-person evaluation, including:

If your child shows any of these signs, seek medical care immediately.

How to Prepare for a Telemedicine Visit

Before your tele-visit, gather information to help the provider:

After the Telemedicine Visit: What to Expect

After the visit, follow the provider's advice carefully. This may include:

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down your child's symptoms and when they began.
• List all current medications and dosages your child is taking.
• Have a thermometer ready to check for fever.
• Prepare to describe any breathing difficulties or other concerning signs.
• Ensure a quiet, well-lit space with stable internet for the telemedicine visit.

After your tele-visit

• Administer any prescribed or recommended medications as directed.
• Monitor your child's symptoms closely for any changes or worsening.
• Follow advice on allergen avoidance to reduce symptoms.
• Schedule an in-person visit if symptoms do not improve or worsen.
• Seek emergency care if red flag symptoms develop.

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose seasonal allergies in my child?

Telemedicine can help assess symptoms and suggest possible seasonal allergies, but a definitive diagnosis may require in-person evaluation and allergy testing.

What should I do if my child's symptoms get worse during a telemedicine visit?

If your child's symptoms worsen, especially breathing problems or high fever, seek in-person medical care immediately.

Are over-the-counter allergy medicines safe for children?

Many over-the-counter allergy medicines are safe for children when used as directed, but always check with a healthcare provider before starting new medications.

How can I help prevent my child's seasonal allergy symptoms?

Limit exposure to allergens by keeping windows closed during high pollen seasons, using air purifiers, and washing your child's hands and face after outdoor activities.

Sources

1. Allergic Rhinitis — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Seasonal Allergies (Hay Fever) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever) — Mayo Clinic.
4. Allergic Rhinitis in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical care. Telemedicine can provide guidance but is not a substitute for in-person evaluation, especially if your child has severe or worsening symptoms. Always seek immediate medical attention if red flag symptoms occur.