Hay fever facts for kids

Hay fever is a common type of inflammation that happens inside your nose. It's also called allergic rhinitis or pollinosis. This happens when your body's defense system, called the immune system, overreacts to tiny things in the air. These tiny things are usually harmless, but your body thinks they are a threat.

When your immune system overreacts, it causes symptoms like sneezing a lot. Your eyes might get red, itchy, and watery, and sometimes the area around your eyes can swell up.

Hay fever is usually caused by allergens. Allergens are substances that trigger an allergic reaction. Common allergens include pollen from plants, tiny bits of pet hair or skin (called dander), and mold spores.

What is Hay Fever?

Hay fever is an allergy. It's like your body getting confused and reacting strongly to things that aren't actually dangerous. When you breathe in certain tiny particles, your immune system acts as if they are harmful invaders. This causes your nose and eyes to become irritated.

What Causes Hay Fever?

Hay fever happens because of specific triggers called allergens. These are usually found in the air.

• Pollen: This is the most common cause. Pollen is a fine powder released by trees, grasses, and weeds. Plants use pollen to reproduce. When you breathe in pollen, it can trigger hay fever.
• Pet Dander: Tiny flakes of skin from animals like cats and dogs can cause reactions. It's not the fur itself, but these tiny skin flakes.
• Dust Mites: These are tiny bugs that live in house dust. They are too small to see without a microscope.
• Mold Spores: Mold is a type of fungus. It releases tiny spores into the air, especially in damp places.

What are the Symptoms of Hay Fever?

The symptoms of hay fever can feel a lot like a common cold, but they are caused by an allergy, not a virus.

• Sneezing: You might sneeze many times in a row.
• Runny or Stuffy Nose: Your nose might drip clear liquid, or it might feel blocked up.
• Itchy Nose, Mouth, or Throat: You might feel an annoying itch inside your nose, on the roof of your mouth, or in your throat.
• Itchy, Watery, or Red Eyes: Your eyes can get very itchy, tear up a lot, and look red.
• Swelling Around the Eyes: Sometimes, the skin around your eyes can look puffy.
• Coughing: Some people might also develop a cough.

These symptoms can make you feel tired and make it hard to concentrate.

How to Manage Hay Fever

There are several ways to help with hay fever symptoms.

• Avoid Triggers: The best way to prevent symptoms is to stay away from the things that cause your allergy. For example, if pollen is high, try to stay indoors. Keep windows closed.
• Medicines: Many medicines can help.
  • Antihistamines: These medicines block the chemicals that cause allergic reactions. They can help with sneezing, itching, and a runny nose.
  • Nasal Sprays: Some sprays can reduce swelling and inflammation in your nose.
  • Eye Drops: Special eye drops can help with itchy, watery eyes.
• See a Doctor: If your symptoms are very bad, a doctor can help you find the best treatment. They might suggest allergy tests to find out exactly what you are allergic to.

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See also

In Spanish: Rinitis alérgica para niños