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If your child suffers from respiratory allergies this time of the year can be very trying, as the plant pollen and spores are at a high. Allergies can of course be caused by more factors than blooms in spring. We have 10 simple tips on how to avoid and alleviate your child’s allergy symptoms.

What is an allergy?

An allergy is the automatic reaction and response the body’s immune system has to a harmless substance, such as food, dust mites or foods. The immune system has identified these substances as threatening and reacts to them, causing an allergic reaction.

What you can do

Try to avoid areas with high levels of pollen and be aware of which plants are in bloom at the moment. Dry the washing indoors, minimising the exposure to the plant pollen.


Air your house in the morning, as there is often less pollen in the air at this time. Do not use air-fresheners in the house, it is better to open a window even in cold weather.


Air your bed and bedding regularly, preferable in the morning. Use synthetic and allergy friendly bedding and mattress covers of polyester or Dacron.


Avoid exposing your child to cigarette smoke or a room where someone smokes. Pollution, fumes and perfumes can also be irritants that aggravate the allergy.


Most soaps, washing powders and other cleaning products, have high quantities of perfumes. Choose odourless and neutral products for children with sensitive skin or allergies.


Choose a good vacuum cleaner. There are several brands that have allergy filters or dust filtration units, which are helpful if your child is allergic to dust mites or pets.  Dust with a damp cloth. A spotless home will not cure your child’s allergy, but reducing the dust will help.

Avoid furnishings that gather dust, such as carpets and heavy drapes, but also soft toys and teddy bears.


Dry air, due to the heating, can make breathing harder. Use a humidifier, but be aware that high humidity over 40% encourages mould and dust mites.


Understand your child’s moods, allergies can cause irritability, tiredness, tantrums, concentration and sleep difficulties for your child.


Make sure your child avoids foods which can naturally have high levels of histamine, see our list below.

High histamine foods

Certain foods can have natural high levels of histamine. While most of us break it down, in people with allergies or sensitivity it will cause the allergy symptoms to flare up. These foods do not always have the high levels to cause an allergic reaction, but you will need to monitor your child’s intake and reaction.

•    Cheese, particularly fermented cheese such as Brie, Cheddar, Parmesan
     and Camembert.
•    Most fish and all shellfish, including canned
•    Tomatoes, especially ketchup and tinned tomatoes.
•    Spinach
•    Chicken
•    Chocolate
•    Pork sausages and dried cured meat or ham, such as salami and Parma ham.
•    Fermented soy products and vegetables, such as soy sauce and pickled
     cabbage.
     (Source: Allergy UK)

Always contact your GP or healthcare provider if you have any doubts or questions about your child’s health or symptoms.