Hay fever is increasingly common in children. Symptoms usually start between the ages of 7 and 15, but can occur as early as toddler age. Because young children find it difficult to describe their symptoms, hay fever in children is sometimes recognised late.

The good news: many children grow out of hay fever as they get older. Symptoms can diminish or disappear after puberty.

Recognising symptoms in children

Frequent rubbing of nose and eyes

The most noticeable sign in young children who cannot describe their symptoms well.

Sneezing and runny nose

Clear, watery mucus. Just like in adults, but children often blow their nose less effectively.

Red, watery eyes

Itchy eyes that children rub frequently. Can lead to red, swollen eyelids.

Blocked nose and poor sleep

Leads to mouth breathing, snoring and disrupted sleep. Can cause daytime fatigue.

Fatigue and concentration problems

Due to poor sleep and the constant immune response. Can affect school performance.

Dark circles under the eyes

"Allergic shiners" -- caused by chronic swelling of the mucous membranes. A characteristic sign in children.

Safe treatments by age

From age 2

Antihistamines (cetirizine or loratadine) as syrup or chewable tablet. Eye drops (cromoglicate). Cromoglicate nasal spray. Available over the counter.

From age 6

Nasal corticosteroids (budesonide, fluticasone) -- the most effective treatment for nasal symptoms. Often requires a prescription or GP advice.

From age 5 (at the allergist)

Immunotherapy if medication is not helping enough and symptoms have been severe for at least two seasons. Referral via GP.

When to see your doctor?

See your doctor if:

  • Symptoms last longer than 3 weeks despite over-the-counter medication
  • After 4 weeks of antihistamines there is insufficient improvement
  • Your child has a fever (fever does not occur with hay fever -- it points to an infection)
  • Breathlessness, wheezing or coughing fits occur
  • School performance or sleep is seriously affected

Practical tips for parents

Shower before bedtime

Washing hair removes pollen. This way you do not bring pollen into bed and your child sleeps better.

Sunglasses outdoors

Protects the eyes from pollen and significantly reduces eye symptoms.

Play outside after rain

Pollen concentrations are lowest after a rain shower. An ideal time to go outside.

Vaseline in the nose

A thin layer of Vaseline inside the nostrils traps pollen before it enters the nose.

Keep windows closed

On high-pollen days, especially in the morning and early afternoon. Do not dry laundry outside either.

Check the pollen map

Check the live pollen map every morning to plan the day.

Hay fever and school

Hay fever can affect concentration and school performance, especially during the grass pollen peak in June -- right in the middle of the exam period. Inform the teacher so there is understanding. Make sure your child takes medication on time (preferably in the morning before school) and has tissues and eye drops with them.