Seasonal Allergies: Helping Your Child Find Relief

It’s bad enough that you suffer from seasonal allergies, but when your child has the same problem, it’s twice as tough. Let’s take a look at seasonal allergies and how to help your child find relief.

Allergic Rhinitis

Whether you call it hay fever, allergic rhinitis, or seasonal allergies, the symptoms are the same, and you and your children must deal with it. You know the drill. Sneezing, itchy nose and throat, nasal congestion, post-nasal drip, runny nose, and itchy watery eyes are all common signs of seasonal allergies.

During certain times of the year we are bombarded with that yellow pollen covering anything. You don’t have to wonder if it’s spring. Pollen from trees, the flowers in bloom, and weeds everywhere cause your child to suffer with allergic reactions.

Don’t Underestimate the Effects of Seasonal Allergies on Kids

When allergy season hits, it may be beautiful outside, but your kids suffer in many ways. Their concentration in school is affected and grades can suffer. Ear and sinus infections increase. Seasonal allergies can make asthma symptoms worse. When they don’t sleep well at night, they can become fatigued and irritable leading to behavioral issues.

Don’t waste any time finding some relief for your kids. Talk with Cobb Pediatrics about what over-the-counter medications are best for your little one. Be sure you find one specifically for children and read the labels carefully. Follow all instructions.

In some cases, a prescription medication may be recommended.

Minimizing Exposure To Allergens

This might seem an impossible task if your child is begging to go outside when the warm weather finally arrives. There are some ways to lessen his or her exposure.

• Have your child take a shower as soon as they come inside. This will remove any pollen from their hair and body. Put their clothes in the laundry. They should also shower before bedtime. In addition, the steam from a shower or bath seems to help relieve some of the symptoms.
• Washing their face and hands immediately should be routine.
• Keep the windows in the house and car closed.
• Keep your child hydrated.
• A cold compress over their eyes can soothe the itchiness in their eyes, and help them to avoid rubbing their eyes.
• If they suffer from sinus issues, use a warm compress.
• If your child’s nose is raw and red from blowing, rub some petroleum jelly on the area. Be sure to look for tissues with lotion or aloe.
• If the pollen count is especially high, create some games and diversions inside the house.

With a little creativity and diligence you can make it through the worst of allergy season.