Which allergens can trigger allergic rhinitis in children?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Allergic rhinitis, the most common allergic disorder in children, is triggered by sensitization to various environmental and dietary substances. According to Britannica, the primary allergens responsible for this condition include:

  • Inhalants: These are the most frequent triggers and include house dust, pollen, and molds.1
  • Foods: In addition to airborne substances, sensitization to specific foods may also underlie the development of the disorder.1

When children are exposed to these specific allergens, they may experience symptoms such as sneezing, nasal itching, and watery nasal discharge. While seasonal allergic rhinitis (often referred to as hay fever) occurs when these allergens are prevalent, perennial allergic rhinitis can cause similar symptoms throughout the year without a seasonal pattern. Treatment typically involves the avoidance of the identified substances, desensitization, and the use of antihistamines or decongestants.1