Hay fever season is official here - and millions across the UK may be suffering from a variety of symptoms.
According to the NHS, hay fever is usually worse between late March and September - especially when it's warm, humid and windy.
This is because it's at a time when the pollen count is at its highest.
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Over 15% of young children are affected by hay fever every year and with the dreadful season finally upon us, it's always handy to know what the most common symptoms are and how to reduced them.
The experts at Babysense have provided advice on how to look out for signs of hay fever in babies and children and 8 top tips on how to reduce the symptoms.
Elaine Soller, Head of Customer Experience from Babysense has said that there are common symptoms of hay fever in babies that parents should look out for as it's "important" to "differentiate between these allergies and having a common cold."
She explained: "“Yes, babies can get hay fever. Hay fever in children and babies is very common. Signs and symptoms of hay fever are similar in babies and children to those in adults.
"If you do suspect your child has an allergy, we would always recommend you contact your doctor for further advice and to get tested on this to get an accurate diagnosis, as it is important to be sure it is a pollen allergy/hay fever and to rule out any medical conditions which may require prescription medication."
Top 5 most common hay fever symptoms in babies
- Sneezing and coughing
- Runny or blocked nose
- Red, itchy, watery eyes
- Wheezing
- Tiredness
How to reduce and prevent the symptoms of hay fever in babies
Elaine Soller warned parents that there are a number of things they can do to help their little one concluding: "There are, however, things you can be doing to reduce the chance of your child getting hay fever and or minimising the symptoms. Firstly, I would suggest checking the pollen count online, and avoiding going on long days out if it is too high.
"Secondly, I would ensure your home and any common places your child goes (for example a car) are always kept dust-free (dust with a damp cloth) and vacuumed down on a regular basis. As well as this, I would keep windows and doors shut around the house to stop pollen from entering. Finally, when you return from an outing I would wash your baby’s clothes to rid them of pollen and to remove any pollen from your child's face, gently wash it with cool water.
"Although it isn’t possible to avoid hay fever altogether, with these tips it should hopefully minimise a lot of the symptoms in your babies and children - allowing them to still play and have fun this spring.”
1. Keep track of the pollen count online
If it is too high or very windy then keep your little one inside for the day.
2. Wipe your pets down when they come in
Pets can bring in pollen so it’s important to wipe them down with a damp cloth and bathe them regularly to prevent them from bringing it inside the house.
3. Have your little one wear wrap-around sunglasses outside
By purchasing a pair of wrap-around sunglasses for your child you can prevent pollen getting in their eyes.
4. Keep the car windows shut when driving
When you’re driving make sure the car windows remain shut and that you use the air conditioning instead to cool down the vehicle. Similar to this, close windows and doors around the house to prevent pollen blowing inside.
5. Dust and vacuum regularly
Make sure you’re regularly dusting around the house with a damp cloth and vacuuming the floor.
6. Wash your baby's face with cool water
To remove any pollen, lightly wash your baby's face with cool water.
7. Smear petroleum jelly around the inside of your child's nose
This should trap pollen and stop it from being inhaled into your baby's nostrils.
8. Wash your baby’s hair, face and hands after being outside
As soon as your child comes indoors make sure to wash their hair, face and hands, as well as giving them a change of clothes. This stops any pollen staying on them or spreading through the house.
