could anyone tell me if claritin is the same as singulair or what...

Claritin and Singulair are NOT the same thing! Claritin is an antihistamine with very low side effects (not the one with a decongestant) and is good for allergies that you describe. Singulair is a leukotriene blocker - a different part of the allergy/asthma system. My child switched from Singulair to Claritin and it has been fine (knock wood).

If you don't want to use medications, you can try is LittleAllergies Allergen Blocker. You apply it around the nostrils and it is supposed to block the allergens from entering the nose.

Using a humidifier in your child's bedroom at night can also help with nasal congestion.

If OTC meds and the humidifier don't work, your child's physician can prescribe a nasal spray.

Be wary of Zyrtec - also associated with behavior changes in some children.

Try hard to clean your home and make your home a safe and healthy environment for your small and young child. Starting them out on meds this early in life isn't good. Their body needs to learn to take things in and to adjust to "life" The home envioronment should be a save place that has the least amount of allergens. Of course, I am not a Dr. but if your child needs meds daily, then the Dr. has guaranteed income, by having you come back. The natural way is so much better if you can do this right. A little more work for mom's but so worth if for the little princes and princesses! Good Luck!

We just took my son off of Singulair and the allergist has us doing Zyrtec thru the middle of December to make sure he does not have any problems. He has been on Singulair since 4 months old and he is now 6. I recently noticed he would have sudden mood changes and would be tired alot and that is why we took him off of the Singulair