Hay fever (allergic rhinitis)

Hay fever or allergic rhinitis, is an allergic reaction inside the nose, that can also affect the eyes, sinuses and throat. It’s very common and affects up to 30% of children.

If hay fever isn't treated and managed well, it can be a risk factor for the development of asthma, sinusitis (sinus infections), or middle-ear infections.

Types of hay fever

Seasonal hay fever occurs mainly in spring and summer. It affects people allergic to pollens from trees, plants, flowers, weeds and grasses.

Perennial hay fever can occur at any time.

Signs and symptoms

The main signs and symptoms of hay fever include:

• a runny or blocked nose
• sneezing
• itchy, swollen or watery eyes
• itchy ears, nose, throat and roof of the mouth
• headaches
• snoring.

Hay fever can also cause poor sleep.

When to seek help

See your GP if your child has any common symptoms of hay fever.

For non-urgent medical advice, call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) and speak to a registered nurse.

What causes hay fever?

Dust, smoke, pollens, mould, and animal hair can cause hay fever. When small hairs and mucus in your child’s nose trap these allergens, they can have an allergic reaction.

Tests for hay fever

Hay fever tests can help you find out what triggers your child’s symptoms. They include:

• blood tests
• skin prick tests – where the skin is scratched or punctured and  small particles are put on it to safely see if it reacts.

Treatment and medicines

Hay fever can’t be cured but there are ways to manage it to improve your child’s symptoms.

Avoid and reduce allergens

The best treatment for your child’s hay fever is to avoid allergens. Reducing allergens in your home will help with this.

Saline nasal spray

Saline nasal spray is a saltwater spray that can clear the nose. Spray once into each nostril and then blow the nose to clear mucous. Using saline spray before a medicinal nasal spray can improve its effect.

Medicinal nasal sprays

Corticosteroid and antihistamine nasal sprayscan help reduce swelling and relieve congestion, sneezing, itching and a runny nose. Your GP or allergist can tell you which one to use and give you a prescription.

If the spray irritates your child, check you're holding it correctly, and using it as directed on the package or by your GP.

Most children can use corticosteroid nasal sprays long-term, but sometimes extended use can cause problems. Ask your GP about the best treatment for your child.

Oral antihistamine

Oral antihistamine can relieve severe hay fever symptoms. You can also give it to your child before they go near allergens to reduce symptoms.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy or desensitisation can decrease your child’s response to allergens. It’s usually for children with severe hay fever aged 5 years and older.

An allergy or immunology specialist will carry out the therapy. They’ll give your child a small amount of allergen – either by injection, or under their tongue as a spray, drop or tablet.

Repeating therapy for 3 to 5 years can improve your child’s symptoms, and they may need less medicine.

For more information

Find out more about allergy and hay fever treatments from the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA).

Developed by the Paediatric Immunology and Allergy Service, Queensland Children’s Hospital. We acknowledge the input of consumers and carers.

Resource ID: FS279. Reviewed: June 2023.

Disclaimer: This information has been produced by healthcare professionals as a guideline only and is intended to support, not replace, discussion with your child’s doctor or healthcare professionals. Information is updated regularly, so please check you are referring to the most recent version. Seek medical advice, as appropriate, for concerns regarding your child’s health.