02/24/2026
Allergy season is starting here in Gillette 🌾🤧 and we’re seeing more kids at Cloud Peak Pediatrics struggling with sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy/watery eyes, and lingering coughs.
Understanding & Treating Allergies in Children
Allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to things like:
* Tree, grass, or w**d pollen
* Dust mites
* Pet dander
* Mold
Common symptoms include:
✔️ Clear runny nose
✔️ Frequent sneezing
✔️ Nasal congestion
✔️ Itchy, watery, or puffy eyes
✔️ Post-nasal drip causing cough
✔️ Dark circles under the eyes (“allergic shiners”)
✔️ Throat clearing
Unlike colds, allergies typically:
* Do NOT cause fever
* Last for weeks or months
* Fluctuate with seasons or exposures
When Should You Start Treatment?
If your child has predictable seasonal allergies (for example, symptoms every spring or fall), it’s often best to:
🗓️ Start preventive treatment about 1–2 weeks before symptoms usually begin.
Nasal steroid sprays, in particular, work best when started early and used consistently throughout the allergy season. Waiting until congestion is severe can make symptoms harder to control.
For children with year-round allergies, daily maintenance treatment during high-trigger times may be recommended.
If you’re unsure when your child’s “allergy season” typically starts, we’re happy to help you map that out.
Treatment Options
* Environmental control
• Keep windows closed during high pollen days
• Wash bedding weekly in hot water
• Shower after outdoor activities
• Use mattress and pillow dust-mite covers
• Change home air filters regularly
* Saline nasal spray or rinses
• Flush allergens from nasal passages
• Safe for daily use
• Especially helpful before bedtime
* Antihistamines
• Help with sneezing, itching, and runny nose
• Non-drowsy options are available
• We’ll guide you on proper dosing by age and weight
* Nasal steroid sprays
• Most effective treatment for nasal congestion
• Work best when used consistently
• Safe for long-term use when monitored properly
* Eye drops
• Can provide relief for itchy, watery eyes
*** Asthma evaluation (if needed)
If your child has wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, or a nighttime cough, we may evaluate for asthma, as allergies and asthma often go hand-in-hand.
When Is Allergy Testing Recommended?
Allergy testing isn’t needed for every child, but it may be helpful if:
* Symptoms are severe or year-round
* Symptoms are not improving with standard treatment
* Your child requires multiple medications to stay comfortable
* There is concern for asthma triggered by allergies
* You’re unsure what specific trigger is causing symptoms
* Your child has frequent sinus infections related to congestion
* There is concern for food allergies or significant reactions
*** Testing can help identify specific triggers and guide targeted avoidance strategies or referral for immunotherapy (allergy shots) when appropriate.
🌟 When to schedule a visit:
* Symptoms lasting more than 2 weeks
* Sleep disruption from congestion
* Recurring sinus or ear infections
* Cough that won’t go away
* Over-the-counter medications not helping
*** Allergies can significantly impact sleep, school performance, and overall comfort — but kids don’t have to just “live with it.”
📞 Call us today to schedule an appointment. We reserve same-day visits for sick concerns and are happy to help your child breathe easier this season.
Your child’s comfort matters — and we’re here to help every step of the way!
