Springtime brings longer days, blooming flowers—and for some children, sneezing, coughing, and watery eyes. If your child comes home rubbing their eyes or having trouble catching their breath, you may be asking yourself: Is it asthma or allergies? Knowing the difference between these two common conditions is the first step to helping your child breathe easier.
Asthma vs. Allergies: What’s the Difference?
Both asthma and seasonal allergies can flare up in the spring, but they affect the body in different ways. Let’s explore what sets them apart—and what to do if your child is struggling.
What Is Asthma?
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that causes swelling and narrowing of the airways. While it can occur year-round, spring allergens like pollen can trigger or worsen symptoms.
Signs of Asthma in Children
Common asthma symptoms may include:
- Wheezing or whistling sounds when breathing
- Persistent coughing
- Chest tightness
- Shortness of breath
- Increased mucus production
- Difficulty breathing, especially during activity or at night
- Airway muscle spasms
What Triggers Asthma?
Kids with asthma may experience flare-ups due to:
- Allergens such as pollen, mold, and dust mites
- Respiratory illnesses like colds or flu
- Physical activity (exercise-induced asthma)
- Cold or dry air
- Emotional stress or excitement
Some children may have allergic asthma, which is triggered specifically by allergens.
What Are Seasonal Allergies?
Seasonal allergies, or hay fever, occur when the immune system reacts to substances like pollen as if they’re harmful. In spring, tree and grass pollen are major culprits.
Allergy Symptoms in Children
Look for these common signs:
- Sneezing
- Runny or congested nose
- Itchy, red, or watery eyes
- Scratchy throat or ears
- Skin irritation or rashes
- General fatigue during allergy season
Unlike asthma, allergies typically don’t cause wheezing or chest tightness.
Not Sure If It’s Asthma or Allergies?
If your child has itchy eyes, a runny nose, and lots of sneezing, allergies are likely to blame. If they’re coughing, wheezing, or struggling to breathe, asthma may be the issue.
Still uncertain? That’s okay—these conditions often overlap and can be tricky to distinguish without medical guidance.
A visit to Elmwood Pediatrics can help identify the cause and create a personalized treatment plan.
Managing Allergy and Asthma Symptoms in Children
Helping Your Child With Allergies
If your child is diagnosed with seasonal allergies, here are a few tips:
- Antihistamines: Help relieve sneezing, itching, and nasal symptoms (some may cause drowsiness)
- Nasal sprays: Corticosteroid sprays can reduce inflammation and improve comfort
- Avoid triggers: Keep windows closed on high-pollen days, use air purifiers, and wash clothes after outdoor play
- Allergy testing: Pinpoints what your child is reacting to
- Immunotherapy (allergy shots): May be an option for long-term relief if symptoms persist after treatment with medications
Asthma Management Strategies
If asthma is the cause, here’s how to manage it:
- Use prescribed inhalers or medications: Controller medications reduce inflammation, while rescue inhalers help during flare-ups (combination inhalers do both)
- Monitor symptoms: Keep a journal or use an asthma action plan to track patterns
- Routine checkups: Make sure your child’s asthma remains well-controlled
- Annual flu shots: Viral infections can make asthma symptoms worse
- Asthma control tests: These help your provider measure how well your child is doing
Breathe Easier This Spring with Expert Help in Rochester, NY
Whether your child is battling seasonal allergies, asthma, or a combination of both, getting the right diagnosis and treatment can make all the difference.
Call Elmwood Pediatrics at (585) 244-9720 to schedule your child’s appointment today. Let’s help them enjoy the season with fewer symptoms and more smiles.
