Managing Seasonal Allergies in Children

1. Managing Seasonal Allergies in Children Expert Tips from Dr. Scott Sicherer

2. Planning Ahead and Indoor Safety Monitor weather and pollen counts; opt for indoor activities on high-count or windy days. When traveling, check the pollen count in the area. Keep windows closed at home and in the car, and use air conditioning with clean filters to reduce pollen exposure.

3. Post-Outdoor Hygiene Routine After outside play, consider changing your child's clothes, rinsing off, and showering to remove pollen. Encourage your child to wash their hands after outdoor play to prevent pollen transfer to the face and eyes.

4. Pet and Home Care Regularly bathe pets and wipe them down with a damp cloth to prevent pollen from coming indoors. Avoid wet, moist spots where mold can grow, and avoid tall grass.

5. Indoor Activity During Lawn Mowing Grass mowing can stir up pollen, thus keeping your child indoors during this activity can help manage allergies. Use nasal rinses to eliminate irritants.

6. Staying Hydrated and Dress Wisely Ensure your child drinks plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. When outdoors, have your child wear a hat and sunglasses to prevent pollen from getting into their eyes.

7. Medication and Professional Consultation Over-the-counter medications like antihistamines, decongestants, nasal steroids, and eye drops can help manage symptoms. If you have concerns about your child's allergies, consult their pediatrician or a pediatric allergy specialist.