Spring is here, and with it comes blooming flowers, warmer temps, and, unfortunately, seasonal allergies. For many families, this time of year brings sniffles, sneezes, and endless questions about whether their child has a cold or allergies. So,we sat down with Nurse Practitioner Melissa Sandlin from Urgent Care for Children (UC4C) to get expert advice on how parents can better manage their child’s seasonal allergy symptoms and know when it’s time to seek professional care. She’s even included some gentle seasonal allergy tips for babies that are too little for medication.
Meet Melissa Sandlin, NP
Melissa Sandlin is one of the trusted nurse practitioners you may meet at Urgent Care for Children. A Birmingham native, Melissa has been part of the UC4C team for over two years and brings more than 15 years of experience in healthcare. She began her career in the surgical ICU at UAB Hospital and spent a decade at Children’s of Alabama caring for patients in pediatric cardiology, gastroenterology, and hepatology.
As a nurse practitioner, she has served in both primary pediatrics and pediatric urgent care. Melissa is also a proud homeschooling mom of four and a passionate advocate for children’s health. When she’s not in the clinic, you’ll likely find her outdoors with her kids or baking one of her famous cakes!
How to Tell If It’s Allergies or a Cold
According to Melissa, seasonal allergies in children often present with a runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, sneezing, coughing, and nasal breathing. These symptoms tend to come on gradually and can persist throughout allergy season. A key difference between allergies and illnesses like the common cold or flu? Allergies typically don’t cause a fever or body aches.
Melissa recommends paying close attention to your child’s overall condition. “If your child doesn’t have a fever and seems otherwise energetic and well, it’s likely allergies,” she explains. “But always trust your gut—if something feels off, seek care.”
When to Visit Urgent Care for Allergy Symptoms
While many allergy symptoms can be managed at home, some require a trip to urgent care. Melissa notes that shortness of breath, wheezing, or symptoms that evolve into a sinus or ear infection are all signs your child should be evaluated.
“It’s important for parents to stick with allergy medications as prescribed by their child’s primary care provider,” says Melissa. “When allergies go untreated, they can lead to complications like bacterial sinus infections or ear infections, which may need antibiotics.”
When to Consider Allergy Testing or Long-Term Treatment
If allergy symptoms are disrupting your child’s daily life or sleep—despite regular use of over-the-counter medications—it may be time to talk with their doctor about allergy testing. “Some families find a lot of relief after pinpointing specific allergens,” Melissa shares. “While allergy shots can help in certain cases, many children respond well to consistent use of OTC antihistamines when used properly.”
Natural Remedies That Work
Melissa is also a fan of home remedies that support seasonal allergy relief. “One of my favorite tips is giving your child a teaspoon of local raw honey daily—just make sure they’re over one year old,” she advises. “Mix it into lemonade or spread it on toast if they don’t like it plain.”
She also recommends nasal irrigation using saline sprays or rinses, followed by gentle suctioning or nose blowing. Products like Zarbee’s, Kindermed, and Hyland’s offer homeopathic mucus relief with natural ingredients such as ivy leaf extract. Adding a cool mist humidifier at night and ensuring a healthy, antioxidant-rich diet can also make a big difference.
Reducing Exposure to Seasonal Allergens
Melissa offers these practical tips to help limit your child’s contact with pollen and other common allergens:
- Check pollen counts daily using your weather app.
- Rinse off outdoor toys like bikes and swing sets regularly.
- Dress your child in closed-toe shoes and protective clothing when playing outside.
- Use HEPA filters indoors and rely on the air conditioner rather than fans during peak allergy seasons.
- Consult your child’s PCP ahead of spring or fall to create a personalized allergy care plan.
Support When You Need It
While we hope your child sails through allergy season symptom-free. But if not, the team at Urgent Care for Children is always available when needed. From minor flare-ups to more serious concerns, Melissa Sandlin and the rest of their compassionate pediatric providers are ready to help your child feel better, faster.
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