That Constant Sniffle Could Be Allergic Rhinitis

When Sniffles, Sneezing and Rubbing Just Don’t Go Away

You may have thought it was just another cold. But the runny nose never quite clears, your child keeps sneezing in the mornings, and the nose-rubbing becomes part of their everyday routine. At Joyful Seeds Paediatric & Development Clinic in Bukit Timah, we understand how frustrating and confusing these ongoing symptoms can be. We are here to help you understand allergic rhinitis, and how to ease your child’s discomfort with care and confidence.

Allergic rhinitis is common in children, especially in Singapore’s humid and allergy-prone environment. While it is not dangerous, it can affect sleep, learning, play, and quality of life if not managed well.

What Is Allergic Rhinitis and Why It Happens

Allergic rhinitis is an allergic reaction that happens when a child’s immune system overreacts to harmless particles in the air. These may include:

• House dust mites

• Pollen

• Mould spores

• Animal dander

• Environmental irritants such as smoke or air pollution

  
  

When your child breathes in these particles, the body releases histamines and other chemicals, causing nasal inflammation and other allergy symptoms. It may happen all year round (perennial allergic rhinitis) or during certain seasons (seasonal allergic rhinitis), though in Singapore, triggers often persist year-round.

What You Might Notice in Your Child

Allergic rhinitis symptoms can be easy to confuse with frequent colds, especially in younger children. You may notice:

• Persistent runny or stuffy nose

• Sneezing, especially in the morning

• Itchy or watery eyes

• Frequent nose rubbing or an “allergic salute” (pushing the nose upward with the hand)

• Snoring or mouth breathing during sleep

• Fatigue, irritability, or trouble concentrating in class

• Worsening of asthma or eczema symptoms in some cases

  
  

Some children may not describe their discomfort clearly, but subtle patterns over time often suggest something more than just a cold.

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How We Support Children with Allergic Rhinitis at Joyful Seeds

At Joyful Seeds Paediatric & Development Clinic, our approach is thorough, gentle and tailored to your child. We start by listening, when did symptoms begin, what seems to make them worse, and how is it affecting your child’s day-to-day life?

During your visit, we may:

• Examine your child’s nose, throat, ears and eyes

• Explore family history and environmental factors

• Identify likely triggers and guide you on how to reduce exposure

• Recommend child-safe antihistamines or nasal sprays when needed

• Discuss longer-term care if symptoms are chronic or severe

• Offer follow-up planning to review progress and adjust care as needed

  
  

Our consultants, Dr Charmaine Teo and Dr Martha Liu, bring deep expertise and a family-focused approach. Whether this is your first time navigating allergies or part of a longer journey, they are here to guide you with care and clarity.

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Caring for More Than Just the Nose

Allergic rhinitis may seem like a small issue at first glance, but it can affect many areas of a child’s life, from broken sleep to reduced focus at school or difficulty enjoying outdoor play. At Joyful Seeds, we care for more than symptoms. We support your child’s whole experience, how they feel, how they learn, and how they grow.

We also understand the daily frustrations parents face. Whether it is endless tissues, constant reminders to take medication, or concerns about school performance, we offer practical solutions that fit your family’s rhythm.

Let’s Bring Relief Back Into the Day

If your child is experiencing ongoing sneezing, congestion or discomfort that is starting to impact their wellbeing, we welcome you to reach out. At Joyful Seeds Paediatric & Development Clinic, we are here to bring clear answers, long-term solutions and everyday comfort, so your child can breathe, sleep and smile with ease once more.

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