MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) --- It's the time of the year that brings seasonal allergies. This can be a burden to many families, as one in five kids experience symptoms in the U.S.
"Seasonal allergies are really common in kids," said Dr. Megan Yanny, pediatrician at UW Health Kids. Symptoms include runny nose, congestion, itchy eyes, and more. Dr. Yanny says pollen, mold, and grass can trigger symptoms when your immune system overreacts.
"Thankfully there's a lot of good medications out there that parents can use, from over the counter or talking to their doctor to help control allergies," she said.
In addition to over-the-counter medication, doctors suggest changing bedding more often, keeping windows closed, and avoiding time spent outside when pollen counts are really high.
It's also important to know that there can be overlapping symptoms between seasonal allergies and the common cold.
"A cold is usually going to feel more severe. You're going to have body aches, a fever, be more run down, have a more severe sore throat and it's going to last for a shorter time," said Dr. Yanny.
If allergies are more severe, it's recommended that you get an allergy test and schedule treatment with an allergist.