We’re all excited for the warmer, sunnier days of spring. But what don’t we look forward to? Pollen season. Anyone who has a kid with allergies knows it’s miserable for your child—and not so much fun for you, either.
Classic symptoms of allergies in kids are a runny or stuffy nose, and your child may also sneeze or have an itchy nose, eyes and ears. Generally, kids with allergies won’t feel too sick or unable to take part in regular activities.
But if there’s a fever or your child feels achy or mopey and out of it, call your pediatrician. Flu, COVID and RSV have all been circulating this winter and may continue into spring. Here’s how to help your kid with allergies feel better fast:
START MEDICATIONS EARLY
If your kids have a history of symptoms at the same time each year, get them started on medications sooner, rather than waiting until they don’t feel well. Medications work better if your child begins them before tree pollen—the biggest offender in spring—is in the air. Start in early spring, which means not waiting until you see that film of yellow pollen everywhere.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT MEDS
For drippiness, try non-sedating antihistamines such as kids’ versions of Claritin, Zyrtec or Allegra. For stuffiness, nasal corticosteroids, such as Flonase, can help, though they take a couple of weeks to kick in and must be used daily, says Catherine Monteleone, MD, allergist and professor of medicine at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. If your child isn’t responding to over-the-counter drugs after two weeks, talk to your pediatrician.
KEEP POLLEN IN ITS PLACE
We know you’re ready for fresh air, but keep windows closed to prevent pollen from floating indoors, Monteleone says. Make sure everyone takes off their shoes so pollen isn’t tracked inside. Kids should shower after outdoor play to prevent allergens from transferring to pillowcases and bedding, where they will breathe them in all night. Wash sheets, blankets and stuffed animals once a week in hot water. Encase mattresses, pillows and box springs in allergen-proof covers, and replace pillows every two years, says the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Finally, your kids probably love to tussle with or hug the family pet, so brush pets or wipe them down daily with a damp cloth to remove the microscopic pollen that sticks to their fur.
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