Signs and Symptoms of Indoor Allergies in Children
Let's start with some common symptoms of allergies in children:1
Sneezing
Your child may sneeze frequently, especially when exposed to dust, pet dander, or mold. This is the body’s way of trying to expel the allergens from the nasal passages.
Runny and/or stuffy nose
A runny nose, characterized by a constant flow of mucus, or a stuffy nose, where the nasal passages feel blocked, are two typical children's allergy symptoms. A stuffy nose can make it difficult for your child to breathe and can lead to discomfort during playtime and bedtime.
Itchy throat1,2
An itchy throat can be a sign that your child is reacting to indoor allergens.2 This can cause discomfort and may lead to frequent throat clearing or coughing.
Itchy or watery eyes1,2
Itchy or watery eyes are common symptoms of indoor allergies. Your child may rub their eyes frequently, which can further irritate them. This can also affect their ability to focus and enjoy activities.
Fatigue or feeling tired1
Allergies can cause fatigue or a general feeling of being tired. This may be due to poor sleep quality, as allergy symptoms can disrupt sleep.
Coughing
Coughing, especially a dry cough, can be a symptom of indoor allergies.
Common Indoor Allergy Triggers
Dust mites
One of a handful of unseen allergy causes, dust mites are tiny insect-like pests that live in household dust. They can exist on fabric and other surfaces throughout your home.4 To reduce dust mite allergens, clean weekly, including washing fabric toys and bedding in hot water at least 130°F (60°C) and drying on the hottest setting for 30 minutes at minimum.
It’s also wise to vacuum areas where dust mites thrive, like carpets and furniture, at least twice a week with a microfilter vacuum bag to prevent these allergens from escaping. Using allergen-proof covers for pillows and mattresses can also help.3
Mold
Mold is another common indoor allergy trigger. It thrives in damp environments and can be found in bathrooms, basements, and other areas with high humidity. To keep mold from growing in your home, tackle three main things: moisture, darkness, and ventilation. Start by cleaning places that get damp, like bathrooms and kitchens.
Make sure these areas have good airflow. If your home tends to be humid, consider using a dehumidifier. Don’t forget to check that your doors and windows seal properly to keep moisture out.5
Discover more helpful tips on finding and cleaning hidden indoor mold with our guide on How to Check for Mold.
Pet allergies
Children love to pet animals, which can leave them exposed to pet allergens. Kids and adults alike may suffer from cat allergies and dog allergies, which typically come from proteins found in an animal's skin cells, saliva, or urine.6
To reduce your child’s reaction to pet dander, have pets groomed regularly and clean carpets often. For more information on pets and allergies, read our helpful deep dive on the subject here.
Indoor plants
Indoor plants can release pollen and mold spores, which can trigger allergies. Some plants are more likely to cause issues than others.8 To minimize this, speak with an allergist or consult your local nursery to choose plants that are less likely to produce allergens. Be sure to keep up with proper plant maintenance to prevent dust from collecting on the leaves and take steps to deter mold growth within crevices and soil.
Insects
Insects, particularly cockroaches,7 can be significant indoor allergy triggers. Cockroach droppings and body parts can cause allergic reactions. To reduce exposure, keep your home clean and free of food debris, and use traps or pest control services if necessary.9
Chemical irritants
Cleaning products, air fresheners, and other household chemicals can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. Opt for hypoallergenic and fragrance-free products to minimize irritation.10
How To Manage Kids’ Indoor Allergies
Use a humidifier11
Humidifiers can help maintain optimal moisture levels in the air, which can reduce irritation in the nasal passages and throat. This is especially useful in dry environments or during the winter months when indoor air can become very dry. However, be sure to clean the humidifier regularly to prevent mold and bacteria growth.
Try an air purifier12
Air purifiers can reduce the amount of allergens in the air, such as dust, pollen, and pet dander. They work by filtering out these particles, making the air cleaner and easier to breathe.
Clean regularly12
When it comes to allergy treatments, sometimes prevention is the best medicine. Regular cleaning is essential to reduce indoor allergens. Vacuum carpets and furniture weekly, wash bedding and stuffed toys in hot water, and dust surfaces with a damp cloth to avoid spreading allergens. Pay special attention to areas where your child spends the most time, such as their bedroom and playroom.
Treat your child’s allergies with ZYRTEC®
Treating allergies is crucial for your child's well-being. Untreated allergies can cause symptoms like runny nose, sneezing, and itchy, watery eyes to persist as long as the allergen is present. Allergy symptoms can affect their sleep, school performance, and overall quality of life. ZYRTEC® can be a potential allergy treatment for kids.
Consider:
Children’s ZYRTEC® Chewable Allergy Medicine
These dye-free chewable tablets are designed for kids aged two and older. They help provide 24-hour relief from allergy symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. Another benefit? These grape-flavored tablets can be taken on-the-go with or without water.Children’s ZYRTEC® Allergy Relief Syrup
This liquid allergy medicine helps ease kids’ indoor and outdoor allergy symptoms for a full 24 hours. It's also free of dyes, sugar, high fructose corn syrup, alcohol, and parabens.Children’s ZYRTEC® Dissolve Tabs
This dissolvable children’s allergy medicine helps provide 24-hour relief for kids’ seasonal and other upper respiratory allergy symptoms, including sneezing, runny nose, itchy, watery eyes and itchy nose and throat. And with their bright citrus flavor and melt-in-your-mouth tablet form, administering them is easy.
If your child is experiencing allergy symptoms, Children’s ZYRTEC® can help by providing powerful relief that works on allergens indoors, outdoors, and all year round.
Remember To Alert Caregivers
Allergies can affect kids in other indoor spaces besides just your home. Tell babysitters, teachers, the school nurse, and other caregivers about your child’s allergies and medications.
Stay Informed
Know your child’s triggers and ways to avoid or reduce exposure. You should also keep track of when seasonal allergies peak and teach your child allergy awareness. Use the ZYRTEC® ALLERGYCAST® app* to help track symptoms and discover when they might be most severe.
*Available for iPhone® and Android™. Standard data rates apply.
When To See a Doctor
If your child has severe indoor allergies or if their symptoms do not get better despite your efforts, it’s important to see a doctor. A healthcare provider can help determine what is causing your child’s allergies and recommend the best course of treatment to manage their symptoms effectively.
Regular check-ups can also ensure your child’s allergy management plan is working and make any necessary adjustments to keep them healthy and comfortable.
References:
American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Children. Accessed January 23, 2025.
Harvard Health Publishing. Allergic rhinitis: Your nose knows. Accessed January 23, 2025.
Cleveland Clinic. Dust Mite Allergy. Accessed January 23, 2025.
Mayo Clinic. Dust mite allergy. Accessed January 23, 2025.
Allergy and Asthma Network. Mold Allergy. Accessed January 23, 2025.
Mayo Clinic. Pet allergy. Accessed January 23, 2025.
American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology. Indoor Allergens. Accessed January 23, 2025.
Goldberg A, Confino-Cohen R, Waisel Y. Allergic responses to pollen of ornamental plants: high incidence in the general atopic population and especially among flower growers. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 1998;102(2):210-214. doi:10.1016/s0091-6749(98)70088-0
American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Cockroach Allergy. Accessed January 27, 2025. https://acaai.org/allergies/allergic-conditions/cockroach-allergy/
Environmental Working Group. Allergens and Irritants in Cleaners. Accessed February 4, 2025.
American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology. Humidifiers and Indoor Allergies. Accessed February 7, 2025.
Mayo Clinic. Cleaner air: Another layer of protection from airborne particles. Accessed February 7, 2025.
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