More than 7 million children in the United States suffer from hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Hay fever occurs in response to indoor or outdoor allergens and causes symptoms similar to those triggered by a cold, such as congestion, an itchy throat or nose, dark under-eye circles, sneezing, a runny nose and watery eyes. Symptoms may be seasonal or occur year-round. Without treatment, hay fever in children can affect sleep, socialization and school performance.
Avoidance of Triggers
Avoidance of allergens that trigger hay fever is the best treatment, explains MayoClinic.com. To reduce exposure to dust mites and pet dander, remove all carpeting from your child's bedroom, wash your pets every week, vacuum frequently, install filters over air vents, keep ceiling fans off whenever possible, wrap pillows and mattresses in a hypoallergenic cover and get rid of upholstered furniture and stuffed animals.
Exposure to mold is preventable by staying away from water-damaged and damp areas and keeping indoor humidity levels low. Limiting outdoor activities during spring and summer and keeping car and home windows closed may improve hay fever associated with seasonal pollen. KeepKidsHealthy notes that food allergies do not commonly trigger the symptoms of hay fever.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are the most commonly used medications in the treatment of hay fever in children. Over-the-counter antihistamines may be the only medication necessary for mild or occasional symptoms, but these drugs may cause substantial drowsiness in children. Newer antihistamines are less likely to cause drowsiness, but may be less effective at controlling allergic symptoms. Seattle Children's Hospital explains that children who develop symptoms during pollen season must take a daily antihistamine for at least two months to keep symptoms under control.
Nasal and Oral Corticosteroids
Nasal corticosteroids are available by prescription to treat and prevent inflammation, itching and congestion in the nasal passages, and decongestants can help relieve sinus congestion and discomfort. MayoClinic.com warns against using nasal decongestants for more than three days at a time, as doing so can worsen nasal stuffiness. Another medication, montelukast sodium, may be beneficial for children with hay fever. This medication must be taken every day and helps prevent and control allergic symptoms. Oral corticosteroids and cromolyn sodium may also be beneficial.
Immunotherapy and Alternative Treatments
Allergy shots, or immunotherapy, may be necessary if hay fever symptoms are severe and fail to respond to other treatments. Immunotherapy involves regular injections of trace amount of allergens over a period of several years.
Seattle Children's Hospital also recommends using saline nose drops to flush pollen or other allergens out of the nasal passages and applying cool compresses to the eyes to soothe irritation. Butterbur extract, stinging nettle, choline, bromelain, goldenseal and acupuncture may be helpful to some children with hay fever, according to MayoClinic.com. Parents should consult their child's pediatrician before using any herbal or alternative remedies.
