Help your child with seasonal allergies by limiting pollen exposure, rinsing it off the skin and hair daily, and using safe kid-friendly medicines like nasal saline sprays or non-drowsy antihistamines. CDC data from 2024 shows 20.6% of U.S. children have a diagnosed seasonal allergy, so you are not alone.

Spot the Signs Early

Watch for sneezing, a runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, and a tickly throat that show up the same time each year. Allergies itch. Colds do not. A fever usually points to a cold, not pollen.

Cut Down Pollen at Home

Small changes make a big difference. Try these steps each day during allergy season:

• Keep windows shut and run the AC with a clean filter.
• Have your child shower and change clothes after outdoor play.
• Wash bedding weekly in hot water.
• Dry laundry inside, not on a clothesline.

A HEPA air filter in the bedroom also helps. The EPA notes HEPA filters remove 99.97% of airborne particles.

Use Safe Medicines

Talk to your provider before starting any medicine. The American Academy of Pediatrics supports a few easy options:

• Saline nasal spray to wash pollen out.
• Non-drowsy oral antihistamines like cetirizine or loratadine.
• Steroid nasal sprays for daily congestion.
• Allergy eye drops for itchy, red eyes.

Skip Benadryl. It causes drowsiness and is no longer the top pick from pediatric allergists.

When to See a Provider

If symptoms last more than two weeks, interfere with sleep, or trigger asthma, schedule a visit. Our team also handles acute childhood illnesses and well-child exams.

Final Thoughts

Most kids feel better fast with a clean home, the right medicine, and a little help from their doctor. Ready for relief? Contact Yorktown Health Vernon Hills today and let’s get your child breathing easy again.