Seasonal Allergies…totally BLOW!
It may not be spring everywhere, but I am sure you have noticed them oak trees have started to get buds of new leaves and the pollen index is rising! Spring is definitely upon us Floridians!
For many of us, along with the beautiful flowers and full beautiful oak trees comes: nasal congestion, runny nose, red itchy-watery eyes, and sneezing. HAY FEVER! Or Seasonal allergies. The most common allergens are pollens from wind-pollenated plants, such as trees, grasses, and weeds.
I know this all too well from my son who gets terrible allergies, especially this time of year!
According to the CDC, seasonal Allergies affect 8.4% of children under 18 years of age.
But not all is lost! There are many options out there which can provide our kiddos some relief.
Nasal corticosteroid sprays (ie. Flonase, Nasocort...) are very effective in providing 24 HOUR relief of nasal and eye symptoms from allergies. They do require consistency and may take 2 weeks before their full affect takes place. They are not recommended for children under four and should be used only as directed.
Oral antihistamines (ie. Claritin, Zyrtec) are also great choices. They should also be taken consistently and will provide 24 hour relief from the dreaded symptoms of Hay Fever.
Other steps you can take at home include frequent hand washing when your child’s get home from school or especially after playing outside. Changing clothes may also help and washing their faces. Keeping the windows closed during the worst of it will help keep pollen out of your home.
Talk to your House Calls for Kids provider, or general pediatrician, about the best plan for your kiddos. With the right defenses in place, you will have a lot less sneezing this spring!
