ALLERGIES CAN AFFECT SCHOOLWORK

The American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (ACAAI) estimates that nearly 40 percent of the pediatric population suffers from allergic rhinitis.  Some common physical symptoms of allergic rhinitis are sneezing, stuffy nose, postnasal drip, difficulty hearing, fever, headache, and pain in the cheekbone area.  These uncomfortable physical symptoms can cause children to have interrupted sleep patterns.  Without sufficient sleep, children may be tired and irritable in school.  They may be inattentive, be unable to concentrate on their written lessons, and receive poor academic grades.  Since many children with allergic rhinitis remain undiagnosed and untreated, they are at greater risk of developing chronic sinusitis and other respiratory diseases.  Allergists can diagnose and prescribe appropriate treatments for allergic rhinitis.

P.S.  Over-the-counter and some prescription antihistamines can cause drowsiness, which may negatively impact children’s cognitive function.



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