Hay Fever & Allergic Rhinitis in Children
Specialist assessment and management of seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis in children across Belfast and Northern Ireland.
Allergic rhinitis — commonly known as hay fever when triggered by pollen — is one of the most common allergic conditions in children, affecting up to 40% of young people in the UK. It occurs when the immune system overreacts to airborne allergens such as grass pollen, tree pollen, house dust mite or pet dander.
Dr Mugilan Anandarajan is a Consultant Paediatrician with a special interest in allergy, eczema and respiratory conditions. He provides specialist assessment and management of allergic rhinitis for children at Kingsbridge Private Hospital and Ulster Independent Clinic in Belfast.
Symptoms to Look Out For
Persistent runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing — often worse in the morning or during pollen season
Itchy, red, watery eyes (allergic conjunctivitis) — often accompanies nasal symptoms
Itchy throat and palate, blocked or itchy ears, post-nasal drip causing cough
Nasal congestion disrupts sleep, leading to fatigue, poor concentration and reduced school performance
Allergic rhinitis and asthma frequently co-exist — poorly controlled rhinitis can worsen asthma symptoms
Seasonal symptoms peak during pollen season (spring/summer); perennial symptoms persist year-round due to house dust mite or pet allergy
When to Seek Specialist Assessment
- Your child's hay fever or nasal symptoms are not controlled by over-the-counter antihistamines or nasal sprays
- Symptoms are affecting your child's sleep, school performance or quality of life
- You want to identify the specific allergen(s) triggering your child's symptoms
- Your child has both allergic rhinitis and asthma
- You want to explore allergen immunotherapy (desensitisation) for your child
- Your child has year-round nasal symptoms and you are unsure of the cause
Allergy Testing Methods
Skin Prick Testing
Tests for allergy to common airborne allergens including grass pollen, tree pollen, house dust mite, cat, dog and mould. Results in 15–20 minutes.
Specific IgE Blood Testing
Measures IgE antibodies to specific airborne allergens. Useful when skin prick testing is not possible or to confirm results.
Component Testing
Molecular allergy testing to identify specific pollen proteins — helps predict cross-reactivity between pollens and foods (oral allergy syndrome).
Nasal Assessment
Clinical assessment of nasal symptoms, nasal airflow and associated conditions such as nasal polyps or adenoid enlargement.
Management & Treatment Plan
Frequently Asked Questions
Allergen immunotherapy (desensitisation) is the only treatment that modifies the underlying allergic response rather than just controlling symptoms. Dr Anandarajan can advise whether your child is a suitable candidate for immunotherapy.