Is your child struggling with hay fever? How your local pharmacy can help
We've put together a guide to answering your most common questions about have fever and how to get the right help for your child.
What excactly is hay fever?
Hay fever (allergic rhinitis) is an allergic reaction that happens when the body's immune system overreacts to something in the environment - usually pollen from grass, trees, or weeds. In children, it often goes hand-in-hand with other conditions like asthma or eczema.
How do I know if it's hay fever or just a common cold?
It can be hard to tell the difference between hay fever and a common cold. Look out for these specific signs of hay fever in your child:
- Frequent sneezing and a runny or blocked nose.
- Itchy, red or watery eyes (often called conjunctivitis).
- Itchy throat, mouth, nose or ears.
- Wheezing or a tight chest, especially if they already have asthma.
Unlike a cold, which usually clears up in a week or two, hay fever will persist as long as your child is exposed to the allergen (like during days with a high pollen count).
If you are unsure, contact NHS 111 or your local pharmacy for advice.
Can a local pharmacy really help with hay fever and allergies?
Yes. For most mild to moderate hay fever symptoms, your local pharmacist should be your first port of call. Pharmacists are trained to:
- Assess your child's systems.
- Determine if it is an allergy or something else.
- Recommend and provide effective treatments without the need for a GP appointment.
Visiting your local pharmacist is often the quickest way to get relief for your child without waiting for a GP visit.
What treatments can help my child with hay fever?
Depending on your child's age and symptoms, a pharmacist may suggest:
- Non-drowsy antihistamines: Available as liquids or tablets to help with itching ad sneezing.
- Steroid nasal sprays: To reduce swelling and sensitivity in the nose (most nasal sprays are safe for children when used correctly, speak to your pharmacist to make sure).
- Eye drops: Specifically designed to soothe red, itchy "allergy eyes".
If your child requires further treatment or investigations, your pharmacist will be able to refer you to your GP.
How can I manage my child's hay fever symptoms at home?
The best way to manage hay fever is to reduce exposure to pollen:
- Check the pollen count: Stay indoors on high-pollen days, especially during early morning and evening.
- You can check the pollen forecast from the Met Office here.
- Keep windows shut: Both at home and in the car.
- The "Shower and Change" rule: After playing outside, have your child shower and change their clothes to wash away any trapped pollen.
- Dry washing inside: Try to dry your child's clothes and bedding inside rather than on the line when the pollen count is high.
When should I be concerned?
While hay fever is usually mild, it can sometimes be more serious. You should speak to your GP if:
- Your child's symptoms are not improving with over-the-counter medicine.
- The symptoms are impacting their sleep or ability to concentrate at school.
- Your pharmacist recommends you speak with your GP.
When is hay fever a medical emergency?
In rare cases, a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis can occur.
Call 999 immediately if your child experiences:
- Swelling of the throat or mouth.
- Difficulty breathing or talking.
- Sudden confusion or light-headedness.
- Blue skin, lips or tongue.
- Collapsing or losing consciousness.
Find support in Dudley borough
Don't let allergies stop your child from enjoying the spring. Visit your local pharmacy today for expert advice and treatment.
To find your nearest pharmacy, visit the NHS Find a Pharmacist website.
