DEAR DR. GOTT: I have a question regarding treatment of a 5-year-old who has been diagnosed with allergies to dust mites and mold. The allergist prescribed Flonase nasal spray and Zyrtec when he’s bad. This seems a little extreme, as it is a steroid and the only symptom she presented with was frequent colds. Is there any other treatment?
DEAR READER: I cannot, in clear conscience, recommend the use of the steroid Flonase for a child, primarily because the medication can affect his or her growth at such a vulnerable age.
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