Hay Fever Symptoms

Hello,My nephew may have hay fever he is 22 months old. Can you help?
(14 Jun 2006)

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Hay fever or allergic rhinitis is caused due to allergic reaction to airborne pollen. Not all pollens cause hay fever but low immunity causes reaction to otherwise harmless airborne elements. Some common producers of airborne pollen are willow, birch, hazel and alder.

Some weeds such as mugwort, fat hen and ragweed and grasses like timothy and ryegrass can also lead to hay fever. The period between spring and summer is the time for plants to pollinate. Air borne pollens are very fine particles and inhalation of such pollen, cause antibodies in humans setting off an allergic reaction.

The most common symptoms associated with hay fever are: mucus production, sneezing, coughing, itching, swelling and fever. Hay fever is rare among children below 5 years of age therefore your nephew is relatively young to contract this reaction. Low immune system appears to be the prime reason to developing hay fever. Parents having history of asthma, eczema or allergic reaction could also contribute to children developing such allergies.

Giving the child honey with warm water is natural home remedy to tackle the allergy as well as to build the immunity of the child. Intake of Vitamin C is known as a natural anti histamine to reduce inflammation and nasal congestion. Having a solution of minced grapefruit with lemon and honey can also help bring comfort to hay fever symptoms. Inhaling chamomile fumes from a boiled concoction of water and chamomile can also help relieve nasal congestion. Inhaling eucalyptus oil on a handkerchief can help relieve nasal congestion. Similarly, the root extracts of the stinging nettle is also known to have a positive effect on hay fever symptoms. Herbal tinctures such as Echinacea (to boost the immune system), Euphrasia (to treat watery eyes), Goldenseal (to treat excess mucous) and Plantago (to treat wheezing) can help reduce symptoms of hay fever. These tips are best suitable to treat mild to moderate symptoms. It is best to seek medical advice from professionals incase of infants.

It is best to prevent the onset of hay fever by ensuring that the child does not wander unattended in pollen infested areas. Limit outdoor activities indicating high pollen counts. It is advisable to cleanse the exposed areas with water and soap to avoid pollens to be inhaled. Hanging laundry outside can cause pollens to collect on the fabric. Similarly, keeping pets clean is also important to avoid children inhaling pollens collected on pet’s fur. It is also advisable to take allergy shots to prevent allergic reactions through such allergens. Use a mask while mowing lawns or raking leaves in the garden to prevent hay fever. Certain foods such as honeydew, cantaloupe, watermelon, cherries, peaches and pears can aggravate the condition and it is therefore advisable to stay away from such foods.

answered by M W on 22 Apr 2009, 1:05:38

Please read more about Hay Fever, the precautions you should take and remedy in our article – Hay Fever, Not Actually A Fever - http://www.home-remedies-for-you.com/articles/139/medicines-and-remedies/hay-fever-not-actually-a-fever.html

answered by P P on 19 Jun 2006, 5:20:55

Hay Fever Symptoms

Hello,My nephew may have hay fever he is 22 months old. Can you help? (14 Jun 2006)

Hello,My nephew may have hay fever he is 22 months old. Can you help?
(14 Jun 2006)