Pediatric Allergic Rhinitis is an abnormal immune system reaction triggered by inhaled allergens such as dust mites, pollen, or pet dander, leading to inflammation of the nasal mucosa. Typical symptoms include recurring sneezing, clear nasal discharge, congestion, and itchy nose. It is often accompanied by nighttime coughing, dark circles under the eyes, snoring, and Sleep Apnea, which interferes with sleep and learning, and may even impact a child’s physical development.
Why does Allergic Rhinitis recur?
• Allergic Constitution: A hypersensitive immune response where even minor stimuli trigger symptoms.
• Environmental Factors: Dampness, dust mites, seasonal changes, and poorly ventilated air-conditioned rooms.
• Mucosal Sensitivity: Fragile mucosal barriers allow inflammation to persist easily.
The TCM Perspective on Pediatric Allergic Rhinitis
In TCM, this is classified under "Bi Qiu" or "Bi Yuan." Common diagnostic patterns include:
• Insecure Lung Defense: Frequent colds and continuous sneezing.
• Lung and Spleen Qi Deficiency: Profuse clear discharge, fatigue, and poor appetite.
• Wind-Cold or Wind-Heat Invading the Lungs: Symptoms worsen after exposure to cold or during autumn/winter.
• Internal Accumulation of Phlegm-Dampness: Severe nasal congestion and a thick, greasy tongue coating.
Treatment follows the principles of syndrome differentiation: regulating the Lungs, strengthening the Spleen, and resolving dampness and phlegm.
TCM Conditioning Approaches
• Herbal Medicine: Personalized formulas to consolidate the exterior, benefit Qi, open nasal passages, and transform dampness.
• Acupuncture: Points such as Yingxiang, Yintang, Hegu, and Lieque are selected to tonify Lung Qi, clear nasal passages, and relieve symptoms.
• Pediatric Tuina (Massage): Gentle techniques like massaging the Spleen meridian, Feishu, and Yingxiang points, which are well-tolerated by children.
• Nasal Irrigation: Improving the nasal environment using professional saline washes.
Essential Home Management
• Dust Mite Control: Wash bedding weekly in water ≥60°C; use anti-mite covers and ensure proper ventilation and dehumidification.
• Dietary Adjustments: Reduce cold drinks, sweets, and greasy foods. Incorporate moderate amounts of lily bulbs, almonds, and white fungus. Avoid highly allergenic seafood during peak allergy seasons.
• Lifestyle & Exercise: Ensure regular early sleep and moderate outdoor activity (avoiding peak pollen times).
• Nasal Care: Gentle rinsing with isotonic saline; wear masks outdoors to reduce allergen inhalation.
• Acupressure Self-Care: Massage Yingxiang, Yintang, Hegu, and Zusanli points for 1–2 minutes daily.
Dr Li Rui reminds parents: The key to managing pediatric allergic rhinitis lies in early detection, early treatment, and early conditioning. Combining TCM syndrome differentiation with lifestyle management can help children reduce recurrences and grow up healthy and happy.
When should you seek medical attention promptly?
• Frequent itchy nose, clear discharge, or coughing that affects sleep.
• Accompanied by recurring nosebleeds, ear pressure/pain, or diminished sense of smell.
• Chronic mouth breathing, dry mouth, or itchy throat.
• Frequent symptoms of eczema or asthma, or frontal headaches. In these cases, seek TCM conditioning as soon as possible while using Western medicine to control acute symptoms.
Dr Li Rui, with over 30 years of clinical experience and a background as a Master of TCM and Bachelor of Western Medicine, has extensive expertise in pediatric TCM, particularly in treating allergic rhinitis. If your child is struggling with allergic rhinitis, please seek professional TCM treatment promptly to improve their constitution. Please book an appointment with Dr Li Rui.
