Pollen allergy season is upon us! Four groups of children to be on the alert

It’s that time of year when the flowers are in full bloom.Children can’t wait to get out of the house and embrace spring!But at this time of year.Some children are suffering from pollen allergies.Pollen allergy is an allergic disease caused by inhaling antigens from outside pollen and is at its peak every spring. Many parents believe that flowers are the main culprit of pollen allergy, but this is not the case.Allergenic pollen is usually wind-borne, mostly from trees, such as elm, poplar, willow and cypress. These pollen particles are small, light and numerous, and easily float in the air in large quantities. When children come into contact with and inhale them, they can easily develop allergies.

In the north, spring pollen allergies usually start in mid to late March and can last until mid to late May.

What are the symptoms of pollen allergy.

Some children may develop allergic rhinitis, which is mainly characterised by an itchy nose, sneezing and clear watery snot. Some children may have itchy, watery eyes and hives-like bumps on the skin. Severe allergies can lead to asthma symptoms and difficulty breathing.

Because symptoms such as sneezing and runny eyes are similar to colds, some parents may find it difficult to distinguish allergies from colds. In contrast to colds, pollen allergies generally do not have a sore throat, fever or other general discomfort. Furthermore, pollen allergies usually last longer than two weeks and often develop at regular times of the year.

There are four groups of children who should be on the lookout for pollen allergies.

1. Have a previous history of pollen allergy.

2. A history of allergic asthma, allergic rhinitis, eczema, hives, etc.

3. A history of food allergy or drug allergy.

4. Children with a family history of allergy.

It is recommended that children with the above conditions are tested for the appropriate inhalation group (pollen) and food group (fruit and vegetable) allergens to identify them for early prevention.

Dietary considerations after allergy.

There is cross-allergenicity between the pollen of certain trees and fruits and vegetables. Therefore, some children who are allergic to pollen have a food allergy of plant origin. After eating mangoes or peaches or carrots or celery, children may develop signs of oral allergy syndrome, such as numbness of the tongue and swelling of the upper and lower lips, which is called pollen-food allergy syndrome. Common fruits and vegetables that may cause pollen-food allergy syndrome include apples, peaches, strawberries, mangoes, pineapples, melons, carrots and celery. When your child eats these foods, be aware of their reactions.

It is usually advisable to eat a light diet after a child has an allergy. Parents should advise their children to drink more water, eat more fresh vegetables and foods rich in vitamin C, eat no or less oily foods, desserts or sweet drinks, and try not to eat spicy and irritating foods.

How to avoid pollen allergy.

Cut off allergens at the source. During the pollen season, try to reduce the number of times you go out and, apart from opening windows when necessary, keep windows and doors closed to prevent pollen from entering the house with the wind. If possible, purchase air filtration equipment.

When you go out, protect yourself by wearing a mask, glasses and long-sleeved clothing. Choose a place with less pollen, such as the beach, for your trip. Early in the morning and after the rain, when the pollen index is low, is a good time to go out.

Take a shower and change your clothes promptly when you get home. In case of severe allergic reactions, it is recommended to take anti-allergy medication under the guidance of a doctor.