How to help children cope with hay fever this summer
As the school holidays begin and children prepare for a summer of outdoor play, pharmacists are issuing advice to parents on the best way to help their children tackle hay fever.
Hay fever can cause symptoms that may overlap with a cold, such as sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, coughing, and itchy, red or watery eyes. So parents need to recognise the symptoms of hay fever and understand how to best support their children to ensure they can still enjoy some summer fun.
Phil Day, Superintendent Pharmacist at online pharmacy retailer Pharmacy2U, has highlighted the key hay fever symptoms in children and how to help alleviate their discomfort.
Understanding your child’s hay fever symptoms & triggers
Phil Day, Superintendent Pharmacist at online pharmacy retailer Pharmacy2U, said: "Whether children are playing outside with their friends or at school, hay fever symptoms can provide them with a lot of discomfort. Some of the most common symptoms include a runny nose, sneezing, watery or itchy eyes, and an itchy throat or ears”.
“Children may react to different types of pollen, and some may be affected by more than one type during the season. Pollen forecasts can help parents plan ahead, but they are not a diagnosis. If symptoms are persistent, severe or unclear, speak to a pharmacist or GP”.
“In addition to this, you can also help by planning activities around pollen forecasts and helping keep pollen out of your child's eyes and face. There are also medications available to help reduce symptoms throughout the day. Although it’s advisable to consult a medical professional for guidance if your child’s hay fever is causing them distress or not getting better."
Three tips for parents during hay fever season
Understanding your child's primary pollen triggers can help alleviate the discomfort they may be experiencing, but there are also steps you can take as a parent to aid them through hay fever season.
Phil Day at Pharmacy2U has shared three tips for parents to help reduce allergen exposure, which are notably helpful for those with younger children.
Prepare your child for the day
“Outdoor activities can increase pollen exposure, especially on high-pollen or windy days, so the summer holidays can be an anxious time for children with severe hay fever. They want to join their friends, but their symptoms often keep them inside or make it hard to enjoy them fully. No child wants to spend their summer struggling with streaming eyes, sneezing or an itchy nose. If your child has wheezing, chest tightness, breathing difficulties, severe symptoms, or symptoms that do not improve with pharmacy treatment, seek medical advice.
“Instead, if symptoms are affecting your child’s day, speak to a pharmacist about age-appropriate options. Some antihistamines can cause drowsiness, so it is worth asking whether a non-drowsy option is suitable. Always check the label and follow the dosage instructions. You can also help reduce pollen exposure with some wraparound sunglasses or a wide-brimmed hat, which can help keep pollen out of their eyes and off their face.”
Plan activities around the pollen forecast
“Monitoring the weather forecast can help you plan for the pollen count throughout the day. If possible, keep your child indoors until after midday, as pollen levels are usually highest during this time. Additionally, try to avoid going outside on windy days when pollen is high, as wind can increase pollen exposure and blow it into your child's eyes.
“Since children are often active and don't stay in one place, bathing them and changing their clothes as soon as you get home can help prevent pollen from transferring onto their skin or bedding.”
Pollen-proof your home this summer
“Implementing simple at-home practices can help prevent hay fever symptoms from worsening for you or your child throughout the day. Keeping windows closed during peak pollen seasons can prevent pollen from entering your home. Additionally, washing bedding at least once a week can help prevent pollen from settling on your child's skin.”
