Hayfever

Hayfever, or allergic rhinitis, is similar to asthma except that the allergic reaction occurs in the mucous membranes of the nose and eyelids, not the chest.

The condition causes sneezing, a runny nose with clear discharge and itchy, watery, red-rimmed eyes. It mostly occurs in spring and summer and is usually due to a reaction to plant pollen. Hayfever is troublesome, but does not usually have serious consequences.

What to do

If your child is sneezing a lot, check his temperature to make sure that he isn't ill with an infection such as influenza or a common cold. Discourage your child from rubbing his eyes; this will make them worse. Bathe his eyes with cool water to ease the irritation. Seek medical advice as soon as possible if you think your child may be suffering from a more serious infection, or if the hayfever is making your child miserable.

If your child's condition is severe, he may need to see an allergist and have a series of tests to track down the allergen that is causing the symptoms of hayfever. There are various measures you can take to try to minimize the severity of attacks. Watch the pollen count each day and, if it is high, discourage your child from playing near freshly mown grass, for example. Use synthetic fillings for your child's bedding, rather than feathers. Keep your house as dust-free as possible. Even if your child isn't allergic to dust, a dusty atmosphere makes hayfever worse.

Prepare an emergency pack for outings. It should contain paper handkerchiefs, eye drops to reduce the eye irritation, a moist towel to soothe your child's eyes, and whatever medication has been prescribed. Your doctor may be prescribe a steroid nasal spray to help relieve the condition.

Dr Miriam Stoppard

New Babycare
Copyright © 2009 Dorling Kindersley
Text copyright © 2009 Miriam Stoppard

Posted 03.11.2010

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