Allergies or something else?

[Cstanton]

Hello,
I have a 10 year old son who constantly sneezes & has a stuffy nose. It usually escalates after waking up & mostly right before bedtime. He's been so for the past several weeks & I don't know what is bothering him. I have tried humidifiers in his bedroom & he applies vicks every day to his nostrils. I have even washed his sheets in hot water. He is so miserable, I am not sure how to help him.  I feel there is some underlying factor but what could it be?
This is the first year he's been like this.

[snowman56]

I have had allergies my entire life and the symptoms are the worst in the morning. Not sure why but I wouldn't totally rule allergies out because you found bed bugs. I am not a doctor though, so don't quote me but it does sound like allergies...

[Cstanton]

Oh really? I completely sterilized (as much as possible) his bedroom & found bed bugs. Could they be a cause too?  I have since thoroughly cleaned his room.

[Dr Rajput]

Hi, welcome tot he forum, it typically suggests allergic rhinitis which is exaggerated or precipitated during cold season or timing. This condition is sometimes associated with asthma.

The triggering factors like dust, fog, pollens etc. can cause the precipitation of these symptoms. You need find the triggering factor. The symptoms can start at any point of life.

A careful nasal examination, Allergen-specific testing includes Skin testing, Serum tests for allergy, Allergen challenge and as well as Evaluation for concurrent conditions like Sinusitis and Asthma is necessary and it directs further steps for management. You need to take measures to avoid exposure to such allergens. He can try sleeping with windows closed, which will avoid exposure to aero-allergen in the morning.

I suggest you to consult ENT specialist. Take care and regards.