Treatment will depend on your child’s symptoms, age, and general health. It will also depend on how severe the condition is.
The symptoms of allergies sometimes look like other conditions or health problems. Always see your child's healthcare provider for a diagnosis.
The 3 most effective ways to treat allergies are avoidance, allergy shots (immunotherapy), and medicine. Avoidance means staying away from something that gives you an allergic reaction.
Suggestions for staying away from allergens are:
- Stay indoors when the pollen count is high and on windy days.
- Control dust in the home, particularly your child’s bedroom.
- Use air conditioning instead of opening the windows.
- Put a dehumidifier in damp areas of the home. But remember to clean it often.
- After playing outside when the pollen counts are high, have your child take a bath or shower, wash their hair and change clothes.
Take vacations in areas where pollen is not as common, such as near the ocean.
Your child’s healthcare provider will also have suggestions for staying away from the allergens that cause reactions.
Treatments for hay fever (rhinitis) may include:
- Antihistamines
- Nasal sprays
- Decongestants
- Medicines for asthma symptoms
- Allergy shots (allergy immunotherapy)
- Allergy tablets (sublingual immunotherapy)
Decongestants are not recommended for children younger than age 4. Talk with your child’s healthcare provider for more information about allergy medicine.