Dos and Don’ts of Treating Seasonal Allergies in Kids

Allergy season can be brutal, especially for kids. When children suffer from seasonal allergies, it can impact so many aspects of their lives. Playing outside becomes an issue, and they may struggle to get comfortable until their symptoms subside. It can affect their sleep, their mood, and even their appetite. Parents of kids with seasonal allergies are always looking for the best remedy to help keep those allergies at bay. Here are the dos and don’ts of treating seasonal allergies in kids.

When treating seasonal allergies in kids, it’s important to identify and eliminate as many of the allergens as possible.

It’s always a good idea to make an appointment with an allergist, just to confirm that your child is indeed suffering from seasonal allergies. Then, set to work eliminating the allergens! You can do this without completely curbing outside play. Bathe or shower your kids every night, including washing their hair. This will wash away any pollen that might be clinging to them.

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Avoid wearing shoes inside the house, and keep the doors and windows closed as much as possible during the spring and summer. If you do need to open the windows from time to time, avoid dusk and dawn, as this is when pollen is at its highest.

Treating seasonal allergies in kids is all about prevention.

In addition to eliminating allergens as mentioned above, allergy medication can also be a great preventative tool for allergies. Make sure you discuss your options with your pediatrician or allergist first, to determine which medication is right for your child. Not all allergy meds are created equal, and you want to make sure you’re using one that’s safe and approved for use in small children.

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Some other home remedies can be used to relieve symptoms, as well. A cold compress over the eyes can relieve itching and swelling. Gargling with salt water can help with a sore throat. And using a humidifier in their room at night can eliminate pollen particles in the air.

But when it comes to treating seasonal allergies in kids, keep these don’ts in mind.

Don’t ignore your child’s allergies or symptoms, or assume they’ll go away on their own, especially if their symptoms are persistent or worsening. Signs of worsening allergy symptoms include grunting with breathing, flared nostrils when trying to breathe, or gasping for air.

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Additionally, don’t over-treat your child’s allergies. Don’t double-up doses of allergy medication, and don’t mix two different medications without discussing it with their pediatrician first.

We all know that allergies are tough to deal with. When treating seasonal allergies in kids, keep these tips in mind to keep them as healthy and happy as possible.

(Image: iStock / Wavebreakmedia)

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