Hay Fever in Children
Summer is in the air, and we hope that we get the weather for children to run about in the sunshine (while following all social distancing rules during this Covid 19 pandemic). Whilst summer brings plenty of fun in the sun, hay fever is also lurking around. If you have ever suffered from it yourself, you know how uncomfortable and just downright annoying hay fever can be. Imagine being a child and having to cope with the symptoms - not very enjoyable at all at all!
What is Hay fever?
So what exactly is hay fever and how does it affect children? Hay fever is caused by pollen. There is more pollen in the atmosphere during Spring and Summer due to the change in the weather. Brighter, hotter days mean flowers and trees that are blossoming by the bucket load. These flowers look pretty but for some they cause havoc. Breathing in the pollen in the air may cause your body to react in a way it would to expel harmful substances. In order to get rid of these substances our body will try to fight these substances. This fight is what causes your child to show symptoms of hay fever.
What are these symptoms?
Children suffering with hay fever may experience a array of symptoms, especially in their nose and eyes.
Nasal Symptoms
Children with hay fever may have a blocked nose, a runny nose, they might sniffle a lot, sneeze, or you may notice them breathing through their mouth. An itchy nose is also a sign, as well as an itch at the back of the throat or mouth.
Eye Symptoms
Your child may have watery eyes, itchy eyes, or you may notice their eyes appear red due to rubbing or scratching.
What can I do to relieve my child’s symptoms?
There is, unfortunately, no cure for hay fever. You can, however, take steps to reduce the amount of pollen your child intakes. These steps include:
Keeping an eye on the weather. Most weather reports will tell of a high pollen count in the atmosphere. It is best to keep your child indoors to avoid symptoms.
Regulate time outdoors. If your child suffers from severe hay fever it is best to limit their exposure by regulating their time outdoors.
Reduce pollen indoors - close windows if the pollen count is high. If your child has been outdoors change their clothes once they come in. If it is evening time, bathe or shower them before bed to reduce any symptoms appearing during the night due to pollen on their skin.
Natural remedies - honey is a great natural remedy to hayfever. By taking a spoonful of honey 3 months before summer it is said a tolerance of pollen can be built up, it’s worth a try! You can also use Haymax Pollen Barrier for kids, it’s a natural recipe and can be used from birth. If your child is a little older, you can try teas like peppermint and chamomile to alleviate symptoms.
Antihistamines - if your child's hay fever is not responding to natural remedies it could be wise to speak to your doctor or pharmacist who may recommend an antihistamine or a medicated nasal spray. These can be heavy on children sometimes causing drowsiness so it is best to give your child only after seeking medical advice.
And remember, you can keep track of all your children’s medical info for free with Jinga Life!