When your child has rhinitis caused by allergies, it’s helpful to identify the allergen that is causing their symptoms and take steps to self-care before visiting . Both my kids are very allergic to dust, pollen and dust mites. Living in Bangkok, as one of the most polluted cities in the world, makes my kids prone to rhinitis almost every day. Most days in Bangkok, the AQI (Air Quality Index) could reach 150, which is very hazardous.
Rhinitis is quite common condition in children and can be caused by a variety of factors including allergies, infections or even cold weather. In my kids case, it is allergy condition. The common rhinitis symptoms of my kids are :
– runny nose and stuffy nose
– dry cough
– itching in the nose, eyes
– sneezing
Here are my ultimate rhinitis self-care :
- Medication for allergies
Over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines can help relieve allergy symptoms including a runny nose, sneezing, and congestion. My favorite medication is Bufferin Lion Japan the green color. It doesn’t contain codein and caffeine, which are dangerous for kids. It is very popular in Japan, and I have been using this since my eldest was 1 year old (so it’s been 6 years so far). Please consult with your doctor beforehands. - Decongestant Nasal Drops or Spray
My kids are not friends with nasal spray, it is painful according to them. So when my daughter’s pediatrician gave this nasal drop, they love it so much. This nasal drop contains medication to relieve congested nose and also acute rhinitis. If you want the mild one, you could try SALINE nasal drop or spray (but this option doesn’t work on my kids). But again, please consult with your doctor beforehand. - Diffuser and Peppermint Essential Oil
Young Living Peppermint Essential Oil is my go-to since Vicks Vaporub doesn’t work anymore on my kids. I prefer to diffuse it since the molecular size would easily ingested through my kids’ congested nose. If you prefer the traditional way, you could use vicks vaporub in a warm water to get the menthol steam to relieve your kid’s congested nose. Of course I would choose the easier way which is to use a diffuser. - Portable HEPA filter air purifier
I have my huge air purifier in the living room. Yet since the dust here is magically everywhere despite my clean-freak habit, this HEPA filter air purifier has been helping a lot. I have been carrying this one everywhere ever since pandemic. I pick this one (B-MOLA go) since The NCCO filter safely decomposes pollutants and harmful gases into harmless Carbon Dioxide and water. No unabsorbed pollutants release back into the air. This light-weight air purifier comes with me to hospital visits, malls, and everywhere my kids go. Just one thing though, don’t forget to change the HEPA filter regularly.
All the above tips are my ultimate rhinitis self-care. If after a few days the problems persist, I would definitely visit pediatrician. Some of the medications could be prohibited in some countries so I would suggest to always consult with your doctor. I hope everyone stays safe and sound. Until next time!
Love,
