Hay fever can start in kids from the age of seven so don’t be surprised if all that sniffling that your little one is doing is down to the pollen count. Symptoms include itchy and puffy eyes, a runny nose, sneezing, coughing and an itchy mouth and can be very frustrating for anyone, especially a child.
Here are ways to help treat your little one’s symptoms:
Close windows
Try to keep windows and doors closed during the day when the pollen count is high and at night so pollen can’t get in. When you are driving, keep all windows closed
Wash hands
Make sure your little one washes their hands after playing outside and if possible pop them in for a quick shower to ensure all pollen is off their body.
Eye drops
Eye drops are great if your little one’s itchy eyes are particularly annoying. Simply get your son or daughter to lean their head back while you administer the drops. They may automatically blink so double check the drop went into their eye.
Wraparound sunglasses
Wraparound sunglasses are great for preventing pollen getting into your little one’s eyes. You can pick up a pair in your local pharmacy and they are handy for staying on your little one’s face more so than traditional glasses.
Petroleum jelly
Petroleum jelly or Vaseline is great for grabbing pollen before it gets into your little one’s system. Line a little around the outside of your child’s nose to stop pollen being inhaled.
Avoid letting them outside at certain times
Pollen counts are usually high in the late morning and late afternoon so avoid letting your child outside during these times, particularly if their hay fever is severe.
Keep an eye on pollen count
Keep an eye on the TV, newspapers and radio for the day’s pollen count. This can help you plan things and to manage it properly.
Go to the beach
If your little one is getting cabin fever, take them to the beach as the sea air blows the pollen away and your little one might get relief from their symptoms.
