HAY FEVER (NOSE ALLERGIES)

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

HOME CARE ADVICE FOR HAY FEVER

Antihistamines: Give antihistamines continuously during pollen season (continuously is the key to control).
- Chlorpheniramine (e.g. chlortrimeton) products are effective and don't need a prescription (any antihistamine you have will do, but some may cause more drowsiness). See dosage chart for chlorpheniramine.
- The bedtime dosage is especially important for healing the lining of the nose.
- Long-acting products (less dosages per day) and combination antihistamine-decongestant products (less sedating) may be more helpful.
- Loratadine: Newer antihistamine that causes less sedation (OTC in 2003).
  - Dosage: 10 mg tablet once daily in morning (orally dissolving tablet also available)
  - Indication: weight > 66 pounds (30 kg) AND drowsiness interferes with school
  - Limitation: doesn't control hay fever as well as older antihistamines.
Eye Allergies: For eye symptoms, wash the pollen off the face and eyelids. Then apply cold compresses. Antihistamine vasoconstrictor eye drops (no prescription needed) will also help.
Wash Off Pollen: Remove pollen from the nose with nasal washes (using warm tap water) whenever needed. Instill 2 or 3 nose drops in each nostril followed by blowing the nose. Repeat until open. Remove pollen from the hair and skin with hair washing and a shower, especially before bedtime.
Expected Course: Since pollen allergies recur each year, learn to control the symptoms.
Call Your Doctor If:
- Symptoms aren't controlled in 2 days with continuous antihistamines.
- Your child becomes worse or develops any of the "Call Your Doctor" symptoms.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 8/2004

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