Welcome, Chantilly and Northern Virginia parents! As the beautiful spring season arrives, it often brings with it seasonal allergies that can affect children. Understanding and managing these allergies is key to keeping your kids healthy and comfortable.

Common Spring Allergens in Northern Virginia

In our region, some of the typical culprits for spring allergies include:

• Tree pollen
• Grass pollen

It’s helpful to stay informed about local pollen counts, which are often reported in weather forecasts.

Recognizing Allergy Symptoms in Children

Here are some common signs and symptoms of spring allergies in kids:

• Sneezing
• Runny or stuffy nose (often clear and watery)
• Itchy eyes, nose, and throat
• Watery eyes
• Coughing (sometimes worse at night or in the morning)
• Fatigue
• Dark circles under the eyes (“allergic shiners”)

Allergies vs. a Spring Cold

It can be tricky to tell the difference! Here are some helpful tips:

• Fever is more common with a cold.
• Mucus with allergies is usually clear.

Managing Your Child’s Spring Allergies at Home

Here are some practical tips for parents:

• Monitor local pollen counts and limit outdoor time on high pollen days.
• Keep windows and doors closed at home and in the car.
• Use air purifiers with HEPA filters.
• Wash hands and face frequently, especially after being outdoors.
• Encourage showering and changing clothes after outdoor play.
• Consider over-the-counter antihistamines or nasal saline sprays (always with guidance from a pediatrician).

When to Seek Pediatric Help at Chantilly Pediatrics in Chantilly, Fairfax, Ashburn, South Riding, Manassas, Virginia.

It’s time to bring your child in for a check-up if:

• Symptoms are severe or significantly impacting daily activities (sleep, school).
• Over-the-counter remedies are not providing relief.
• Symptoms are persistent and not improving.
• There are concerns about asthma being triggered or worsening with allergies (wheezing, shortness of breath).
• You have any concerns or questions about managing your child’s allergies.

How Chantilly Pediatrics Can Help

We offer services to help manage your child’s allergies, including diagnosis, treatment recommendations, and guidance on when further specialist referral might be necessary.

We are committed to the well-being of your children. Please schedule an appointment if you have any concerns about your child’s spring allergies.