For some people spring is the most beautiful season and for some others it is the most miserable period of the year, especially if they are known to suffer from seasonal allergy. Large number of population in America and in different part of world suffers from seasonal allergy. It is more common in toddlers and children although adults too can get affected.
The symptoms of seasonal allergy usually develop after the age of 3. It is an overreaction of the immune system to certain outdoor and indoor allergens such as pollen, molds, dust etc. The peculiarity of seasonal allergy is that it occurs during certain period of the year, usually when outdoor molds release spores and grasses and weeds release pollen. Seasonal allergic rhinitis is not dangerous disorder, but it can be quiet discomforting for the toddler. Because of the discomfort he may have reduced appetite, become inactive etc.
Signs And Symptoms Of Seasonal Allergies In Toddlers
Seasonal allergy is an abnormal response of the immune system to an allergen. It is an overreaction of the immune system to substances that are normally harmless. A person susceptible to seasonal allergy may suffer from various symptoms on touching, eating or inhaling the allergen. The symptoms may manifest during certain period of year when there is dense concentration of pollen and mold spores in air.
The allergic symptoms are spontaneous and last till the toddler remains exposed to it. This includes:
- Sneezing
- Itching in nose, upper palate and throat.
- Congestion and stuffy nose.
- Running nose
- Burning in eyes
- Watering in eyes
- Coughing
In some toddlers more serious symptoms of asthma may develop such as wheezing cough, breathing difficulty and shortness of breath etc.
Natural Treatment for Seasonal Allergies In Toddlers
Seasonal allergy is easily diagnosed because of its typical periodic occurrence in the year following to exposure to allergen. Besides this, allergic skin test can identify the allergy.
Treatment of seasonal allergy in a toddler depends on the severity of symptoms. The most important part is to reduce exposure of allergen. Parents must take certain precautionary measures to prevent their child from getting exposed to such allergen, especially when the pollen or mold count is high in air. For example they can keep the windows closed, use HEPA (high efficiency particulate air filter) in their rooms as it is most effective in removing allergen. The air conditioning unit must be cleaned properly before use. The child must take shower, wash his hands and change clothes once he enters in house after playing outdoor games.
If reduction of exposure is not effective in dealing with the symptoms, the patient may need medication. Conventionally uses of antihistamines, nasal decongestants, are beneficial to reduce symptoms. However, there are several other natural remedies that may alleviate the problem.
- Use of nasal saline drops instead of decongestants. It can be prepared at home. Dissolve a pinch of salt in cupful of distilled water. Put few drops in one nostril and let it drain out from mouth or another nostril.
- If the child has itchy eyes, than washing the eyes with cool water will provide relief.
- Organic apple cider vinegar is effective. Mix half teaspoon of apple cider in a glass of water. Let the child drink this water.
- Nettle leaves are known to have anti-allergic properties; hence they are useful to counter the symptoms of allergic seasonal rhinitis. Boil few nettle leaves and strain the liquid once it becomes cool. Give half cup of this tea to the child. It helps to soothe the throat and nose.
- Mix one teaspoon of honey, a pinch of salt, pinch of turmeric powder in a glass of warm milk. Give this mixture to the child. It is natural cure for allergic rhinitis.
- Let the child eat more fruits and vegetable as it contains vitamin C.
- Homeopathic medicines are extremely useful in alleviating seasonal allergy in toddlers and children.