Pollen allergy in children: how to plan outdoor activities in spring

Observe first, then plan

Children often cannot explain "itchy nose" clearly. They more often rub their nose and eyes, clear their throat often, cough at night, or sleep poorly. You can record symptoms and activities for a week to see whether they are linked to time outdoors, the weather, or green areas, and then adjust your plans based on that.

Practical ways to handle outdoor activities

• Check the pollen count forecast for the day. When the count is high, shorten time outdoors or switch to indoor activities
• Go out after rain or when the air is humid, and avoid windy, dry periods
• Have your child wear a mask and a hat to reduce pollen sticking to hair and face
• After coming home, change clothes and wash hands and face first, then go into the bedroom area
• Do not rub eyes or nose outdoors. Carry tissues and drinking water with you

Working with the school and caregivers

Tell teachers and caregivers about your child's allergy and how to manage it. If needed, provide the doctor's written instructions for medicines. If your child has repeated wheezing, shortness of breath after activity, waking at night unable to breathe, or symptoms that keep affecting sleep and school, they should be assessed at the paediatric department or the allergy department. Whether medicines are needed, and which type, must be decided by a doctor. Parents should not give medicines on their own for a long time.

This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Please follow your doctor's instructions.