Natural Remedies For Hay Fever In Toddlers

Hay fever is medically termed as allergic rhinitis. It is basically an allergic reaction to pollen. It is important to remember though, that all pollen is not responsible for hay fever. Since your nephew is very young, it is advisable that you pay special attention to his diet. This fever is generally associated with those whose immunity is low. These pollen are simply airborne particles that are harmless. However, since your nephew has hay fever, it means that his immunity needs to be boosted.

Meanwhile, check your surroundings for trees like birch, alder, willow and hazel. These generally produce the pollen that causes such allergies. Ryegrass, timothy, mugwort and ragweed are common grasses and weeds that also have pollen that your nephew could be allergic to. These particles are so fine that you cannot see them and since they are airborne, the only way to get rid of them is to completely remove the pollen producing flora from your vicinity.

The pollen is especially abundant in the air during spring and summer when the flowers are in full bloom and pollination is happening. This pollen is foreign material that when inhaled sets off an allergic reaction in the body. If you are unsure whether your nephew has hay fever, it is best to check for the following symptoms:

• Runny nose, plugged ears, stuffy or congested nose, frequent sneezing, itching in the nose or ear canal, water eyes that turn bloodshot, frequent fatigue, post-nasal drip and troubled sleep.
• Mucus production is the characteristic symptom of the condition and it is often accompanied with fever, swelling, cough and sneezing. Usually, this fever is not seen in children who are under five years of age. Therefore it is hard to say whether your nephew is suffering from this condition. However, low immune and genetic disposition have a major role to play and if the symptoms are confirmed, then he has hay fever.

Hay fever is not really a treatable condition. There are therefore only two things that you can do to keep your nephew comfortable. The first is to increase immunity by concentrating on a nutrient rich diet. The second is to give medication so that the symptoms are alleviated. If the symptoms are alleviated, your nephew will feel relieved. Also, keep your yard, lawn or garden clean. If you have plants which produce pollen to which your nephew is allergic, it is best to remove or replace them. When the symptoms become elevated, give your nephew a mixture of lemon and honey to soothe the throat and alleviate cough. chamomile tea or fumes can also help get rid of the congestion and the runny nose.

answered by G M

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

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