Sneezing, itchy eyes and runny noses can signal spring allergies. Here's how parents in DC, Maryland and Virginia can identify symptoms and help kids feel better.

As winter finally loosens its grip and spring begins to bloom, many families welcome the warmer days. Yet for a significant number of children, spring also marks the beginning of allergy season. Sneezing, itchy eyes, runny noses and general misery can quickly take the joy out of outdoor fun. Understanding what triggers spring allergies, how to spot symptoms and what practical steps parents can take can make a difference.

Why spring allergies are so common

Trees are the earliest pollinators in many regions, often beginning their pollen release as temperatures climb into the upper 50s and low 60s. A consistent week of mild temperatures is usually enough to kick off a noticeable pollen season in the Maryland, Virginia and Washington, DC, area.

Some years, pollen appears as early as mid-February; in others, it might not begin in earnest until late March or early April.

Different trees pollinate at different times, and sensitivities vary widely between children. Oak and birch trees are major culprits, typically peaking in April and May. Earlier in the season, elm, cedar, pecan, hickory and maple can trigger symptoms.

National statistics reflect just how common spring allergies are: Approximately 26% of U.S. adults and 19% of children have seasonal allergies, according to the Allergy & Asthma Network. Boys are slightly more likely to have seasonal allergies than girls.

Genetics also play an important role: A child with one parent who has allergies is 30% to 50% more likely to develop allergies; if a child has two parents with allergies, that risk rises to 60% to 80%.

Identifying symptoms in kids

Seasonal allergy symptoms may mimic symptoms associated with a lingering cold, especially in young children who may not clearly describe what they're feeling. Classic spring allergy symptoms include:

  • Sneezing
  • A runny or congested nose
  • Itchy, watery or red eyes
  • Facial itchiness, including the nose, eyes and ears
  • Itching of the roof of the mouth — this is a classic sign of seasonal allergies

Allergy symptoms are usually persistent, lasting weeks or months, unlike a virus, which usually clears in about two weeks.

As a board-certified allergist at Kaiser Permanente/the Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group, I am often asked to differentiate between allergies and viral infections. I tell patients that fever, muscle aches and overall body soreness usually point to a viral illness rather than allergies.

Oral allergy syndrome

Some children also experience oral allergy syndrome, in which the mouth becomes itchy when eating certain raw fruits or vegetables. This is especially common among kids allergic to birch pollen, which cross-reacts with apples, peaches, cherries, pears and carrots. Symptoms are usually worse in peak pollen months, from April through June.

When to get allergy testing

If you suspect your child has seasonal allergies, reach out to your child's pediatrician. Pediatricians can order blood tests, which many families prefer because they require only a single needle prick. Skin-prick testing, which is performed by allergists, is equally accurate but involves up to 40 tiny pricks on the child's back, which some find uncomfortable. Skin-prick testing will also leave small/temporary hives where allergies are found. This will lead to an itchy back for about one hour. Allergy testing is often recommended because:

It helps predict when symptoms will start based on known triggers, such as tree, grass or weed pollen. Knowing when symptoms may start can help determine when to start taking medication to combat allergies.

It will show whether a child is allergic to indoor triggers such as dust mites or pet dander, which can cause nighttime congestion, increased snoring or year-round symptoms.

Over-the-counter medications that help

I recommend parents take stock of their medicine cabinets early in the allergy season, replacing expired products and preparing for weeks or months of possible symptoms.

Effective over-the-counter medications for allergies include:

  • AstePro (azelastine nasal spray): Often more effective than oral antihistamines. This is typically approved for ages 6+ but sometimes used younger.
  • Flonase (fluticasone nasal spray): The most effective allergy medication overall, but I caution against year-round daily use in children because long-term use may affect height. Seasonal use for a few weeks or months is generally considered safe.
  • Saline nasal spray: Helps rinse pollen and mucus from nasal passages.
  • Oral antihistamines (Claritin, Zyrtec, Allegra): All are available in children's formulations.
  • Pataday 0.7% eye drops: A strong, over-the-counter option for itchy, watery eyes.

Parents of kids with eye symptoms may also consider keeping artificial tears on hand to rinse pollen from irritated eyes.

Very few allergy medications require a prescription. Singular (montelukast) is sometimes used for allergy-related asthma, but it does not outperform over-the-counter options for most allergic symptoms.

For more persistent or severe cases, allergists may recommend sublingual immunotherapy: dissolving tablets (available for dust mites, grass pollen, or ragweed pollen) under the tongue that desensitize the body to some allergens. These require an initial dose in the allergist's office and an EpiPen at home as a precaution but are safe and effective in the long term.

Practical steps to take at home

Parents can take several simple steps to help minimize pollen exposure:

  • Encourage kids to shower at night to remove pollen from hair and skin before bed.
  • Change clothing as soon as they come indoors.
  • Keep windows closed during high-pollen days.
  • Use a high-quality HEPA air filter and replace HVAC filters as recommended.
  • Encourage sunglasses or hats outdoors to keep pollen away from the eyes and hair.
  • Vacuum regularly, especially in homes with pets who track pollen inside.

Small changes like these can help reduce pollen accumulation on furniture, bedding and in the air.

Why managing allergies matters

Beyond discomfort, unmanaged allergies can interfere with a child's life, negatively affecting sleep, school performance or participation in outdoor activities. A kid should be able to do any sport they want, and if allergies are holding them back, getting treated is important.

With the right combination of awareness, preparation and support from your child's doctor, spring can be fun.

Dr. Troy Baker, DO, is a board-certified allergist with the Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group. He sees patients at the Kaiser Permanente Caton Hill Medical Center.