The 5 signs your kid might be dealing with allergies (and what to do about it).

Thanks to our brand partner, ZYRTEC

When I think of parenting little kids, a few things always come to mind: the sweet mispronunciations — like calling puddles "puggles" — backpacks that seem too big for their tiny bodies and honestly, nothing melts me faster than seeing them in their pyjamas just after a bath.

Then there are the pockets filled with rocks, random kitchen bits found in beds and that sudden rash or drippy nose that seems to appear from nowhere.

Allergy symptoms in young children can be just like that — subtle, easily missed and tricky to explain. Kids this age often don't have the words to say how they feel, which means that what can seem like a little sniffle or scratchy eye could actually be a sign of something more.

According to Zyrtec's new YouGov survey, only 17 per cent of parents with kids showing hayfever symptoms think their home environment could be making things worse.

In reality, common allergens like pollen, dust and mould can start outside and be brought into the home. Pollen, for example, can hitch a ride on jackets and backpacks after outdoor play and settle into rugs and furnishings.

Since kids are so resilient, we might not notice that they're being affected by allergies. So, let's take a look at how allergy symptoms start, the biggest triggers and how to spot the signs early.

How do symptoms start?

Allergies occur when the immune system mistakenly identifies harmless substances as threats, prompting the release of histamine, which causes symptoms such as sneezing, itchy, watery eyes and a runny nose.

So, reducing triggers is the perfect first line of defence. But if you've ever tried to stop a little kid from playing outside, you'll know that it's not always possible — so a little help can go a long way.

Zyrtec Kids is one option for little ones needing allergy relief. It's fast-acting and gives kids up to 12 hours of relief from symptoms like sneezing, runny noses, watery or itchy eyes and even itchy skin rashes.

The Zyrtec Hayfever and Allergy Oral Liquid is for kids aged one year and up, while the Chewable Tablets are ideal for older kids, six years and above.

Zyrtec Kids is effective against symptoms triggered from seasonal allergens like grass and pollen, as well as year-round triggers such as dust, mould and pet dander.

Here's what to look out for the next time you suspect allergies are at play:

1. A runny or blocked nose.

Allergies can show up in the sinuses in two ways — running like a tap or all blocked up (on one or both sides). 

2. Sneezing.

This little outburst is the body's way of trying to flush out the irritant. Of course, we all sneeze from time to time, but sneezing (just once or many times in a row) can be a sign that your little one is dealing with allergies. 

3. Itchy, swollen or watery eyes.

Red, itchy, swollen or watery eyes can be a hallmark of hayfever or indoor allergies. When their eyes or nose touch a trigger, their body thinks it is dangerous, and their immune system tries to fight it off, causing a reaction.

4. A rash that won't quit.

Hives, also called urticaria, are a type of red, raised, itchy bumps or welts. Hives happen when the body releases histamine from the skin cells. An allergic trigger may be to blame, and it's worth consulting your healthcare professional for further advice. 

5. Sleep issues.

Allergies can even affect your child's sleep — and let's be honest, yours too. Untreated allergies like hayfever can lead to poor sleep quality, daytime sleepiness and fatigue, making bedtime and mornings harder on the whole family.

4 tips for reducing allergens in the home.

1. Pollen-proofing.

It can be tricky to minimise exposure to pollen, but there are some simple steps that may help with symptoms. Try staying indoors on high-pollen or windy days, always shower after spending time outside to wash away allergens and when driving, use re-circulated air in the car when pollen levels are high.

Finally, drying bedding and clothing indoors can also help minimise pollen from clinging to fabrics and making its way inside.

2. Limiting dust.

Dust mites love to live in bedding, carpets and soft toys, and they're a common trigger for allergies.

Doing simple things like washing your sheets, pillowcases and mattress covers weekly in water hotter than 60 degrees celsius, using dust-mite-resistant covers on pillows and mattresses and vacuuming regularly can help keep allergen levels down.

3. Mould management.

Mould thrives in damp, poorly ventilated areas and can trigger allergy symptoms, but there are several practical steps to reduce mould exposure. These include: removing visible mould using bleach or other commercial mould-reduction cleaners, ensuring natural ventilation in areas prone to mould (like bathrooms and kitchens) and promptly sealing any leaks in bathrooms, roofs or gutters.

4. Patrol your pets.

Allergic reactions can be triggered by dander from pets such as cats, dogs, rabbits and birds, whether at home or elsewhere. Animal dander comes from skin cells, sweat and saliva, and when animals shed their hair, dander becomes airborne, often staying in the air for a long time.

The most effective way to reduce exposure is to avoid the animal. However, for milder reactions, keeping pets out of bedrooms and main living areas can help minimise symptoms.

Find Zyrtec Kids Allergy and Hayfever Oral Liquid and Chewable Tablets at Chemist Warehouse.

Always read the label and follow directions for use.

Feature Image: Getty.

Zyrtec Rapid Acting 24 hour Hayfever & Allergy Relief Antihistamine Liquid Capsules are a soft gel capsule that relieves multiple hayfever & allergy symptoms.