Helpful Tips to Manage Your Child’s Grass Allergies
Have you noticed your child’s allergies seem to get worse in the spring and summer months? If so, they may be allergic to grass.
Grasses are one of the most common allergies out there. Every year, plants, including all types of grasses, release microscopic pollen grains, which travel in the air to fertilize other plants. Unfortunately, if your child has grass allergies, the pollen will trigger an allergic reaction.
Some of the grass allergy symptoms include a runny nose, swelling around the eyes, sneezing, stuffy nose, and more. Even if you can’t see grass pollen in the air (and you usually won’t), your body can react to small amounts. Some people know pollen allergy as “hay fever,” doctors will likely call it “seasonal allergic rhinitis.”
Now that you understand more about a grass allergy, it’s time to learn how you can help your kids if they are dealing with this. From following the right fall lawn care tips to using the information below, there are a few things you can do to reduce the impact of a grass allergy.
Limit Time Outdoors
When grass pollen is high in your area, you should ensure your child has limited time outdoors. You can check your local forecast to find the pollen count for the day. On higher pollen count days, try to plan some fun indoor activities, such as playing board games or watching movies.
Maintain Your Lawn
To help combat a grass allergy, it’s best to keep your lawn cut as short as possible. If you cannot handle this on your own, hire someone to do it or ask for help. By keeping your lawn short, you can reduce the likelihood that grass pollen will be released. Also, be sure all windows and doors leading into your home are shut before you mow.
Close the House
Make sure you keep your windows closed and secure during pollen season. If you want to keep cool, just turn on the air conditioner. You should also use the right type of air filter. You can find options that are certified to help with asthma and allergy issues.
Shower Daily
If your child is allergic to grass, they need to bathe and shampoo their hair each day. Doing this is going to remove any pollen that may be stuck to them. It will also help keep it out of their bed, which can make allergy symptoms worse.
Wash Bedding and Blankets
Even if your child showers or bathes before going to bed, they may still get pollen in their bedding and blankets. You can help prevent issues by washing their bedding in soapy, hot water once per week.
Wear a Hat and Sunglasses
When your child goes outdoors during times of high grass pollen, encourage them to wear a hat and sunglasses. While they may feel a little silly at first, this will help keep the pollen out of their eyes and off their hair.
Change Clothes
When your child comes inside from playing or even running errands, it’s smart to have them change their clothes. Also, if their skin may contact the grass, be sure they wear pants. Taking steps to prevent this type of contact will minimize issues.
Dry Clothes Indoors
Do you love the smell of line-dried clothes? A lot of people do. There’s nothing better than the smell of sunshine. However, if your child has allergies, it’s best to skip outdoor drying. Instead, pop them in the dryer and ensure they don’t come in contact with grass pollen.
When it comes to fighting grass pollen, you may feel like you are losing the battle. However, with the tips above, you can help keep your child symptom-free, which will ensure they feel better, regardless of how serious their allergy may be. Being informed is the best way to keep your child healthy and ensure they don’t experience more serious allergy symptoms.
