Nothing to sneeze at

* Help is out there for allergy sufferers who dread the onslaught of symptoms brought on by April showers and May flowers.

For many, the onset of spring brings with it sneezing, runny noses, and itchy watery eyes.

According to Children's Mercy Hospitals and Clinics, www.childrensmercy.org, about 30 percent of the people in the United States suffer from allergies at some point during the year. Among these sufferers are about 15-20 million children, who battle various allergies.

There are several symptoms that may manifest in a child who has allergies, Children's Mercy Hospitals and Clinics physician Jay Portnoy, section chief for Allergy/Asthma and Immun-ology, said.

"Children with allergies oftentimes experience sneezing. These children may also experience a runny nose with clear to yellow drainage and itchy watery eyes," Portnoy said.

Allergies, which occur when the body's immune system begins fighting off harmless substances, can start anytime within a child's life. However, Portnoy said that the development of allergies is uncommon at very early ages.

"Children two and under are less likely to develop allergies, but if they do, these children tend to be sensitive to perennial allergens such as dust mites, mold and animal dander," Portnoy said. "Between the ages of two and six, kids tend to develop seasonal allergies. After that, they are likely to remain allergic for decades."

Although the onset of allergies can be a miserable experience, Portnoy said there are steps that can be taken, which will help to relieve the symptoms. The best treatment for allergies is avoidance, according to Portnoy. However, since avoidance is not always possible, parents are encouraged to take their allergy-prone children to see an allergist.

Over-the-counter antihistamines can sometimes be helpful, but Portnoy warns that these types of medications can cause drowsiness and cause a reduction in school performance. Nasal sprays may also help alleviate allergy symptoms.

Portnoy said allergy shots are also an effective method of relieving allergy symptoms.

Children's Mercy is investigating a new type of allergy therapy, the hospital's Web site said.

Rush immunotherapy is similar to conventional allergy injections, which are given in progressively larger doses, but the rush therapy is administered in a week or less.

Portnoy said he recommends that parents get their children allergy relief as soon as possible.

"Remember to get your child treated now, so that they will have a more enjoyable, allergy-free spring and summer," he said.