Allergic rhinitis or nasal allergy is quite common and known to affect 10%-20% of children. Allergic rhinitis or nasal allergy leads to symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, blocked nose , itching, post nasal and cough. These symptoms affect the daily life of the child with impact on sleep, studies, sports, mood and concentration. In addition many children with allergic rhinitis or nasal allergy can have associated eye allergy or allergic conjunctivitis, sinusitis and asthma. They can lead to additional problems.
Most children with allergic rhinitis or nasal allergy are allergic to house dust mites, pet dander or pollen. The usual treatments are nasal spray and oral antihistamines which provide symptomatic improvement but only control the problem. Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) is a newer treatment option which can potentially cure the allergy, by modulating the immune system..
When should sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) be considered for children with allergic rhinitis or nasal allergy?
Children who have allergic rhinitis or nasal allergy who have significant symptoms on basic treatment (like intranasal spray and oral anti-histamines) and have a documented allergy to house dust mites or pollens should be considered for sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT).
What are the benefits of sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) in children with allergic rhinitis or nasal allergy?
Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) is a potentially disease modifying treatment for allergies. It induces tolerance against the allergens. With Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) there should be a considerable reduction in symptoms, reduction in the need for medicines and overall improvement in the quality of life. When immunotherapy is continued for 3 years it leads to disease modification and even after the sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) is stopped the child remains well and may not need any medications in the long term. Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) is hence considered to cure allergic rhinitis or nasal allergy.
What age can you take sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT)?
Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) is usually recommended after the age of 5 years but can be given after 3 years of age as well.
What is the duration of sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT)?
Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) should be given for a period of 3-5 years for a good and complete response.
Is sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) safe for children?
Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) does not carry any significant or serious adverse effects in children. Minor local side effects like itching and burning can be seen.
In case your child is having allergic rhinitis or nasal allergy and is not getting better with basic treatment you need to get in touch with a pediatric allergist or pulmonologist for an allergy test and consideration of Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT).
