Ashwin Lewis
Allergies are the most common chronic disease in children, and they can significantly impact a child's sleep quality. Seasonal allergies, food allergies, and allergic rhinitis are among the most prevalent allergies in children, leading to symptoms such as itchy eyes, runny nose, sneezing, congestion, and skin rashes. To comfort allergies in a 6-year-old and improve their sleep, a combination of medication and environmental control is often recommended. Over-the-counter antihistamines, eye drops, and nasal sprays are commonly used to treat allergy symptoms, but it's important to consult a doctor or pediatrician for guidance on specific medications and dosages suitable for children. Additionally, identifying and minimizing exposure to allergy triggers, such as pollen, dust mites, and pet dander, can help prevent allergic reactions and improve sleep quality.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Allergy medication | Children's FLONASE Sensimist, antihistamines, steroid nasal sprays, eye drops, adrenaline |
| Preventative methods | Stay inside when allergen levels are high, keep windows closed, use air conditioning, remove carpets, rugs, and heavy curtains, seal pillows and mattresses with dust mite-proof covers, keep pets out of certain areas |
| Treatment | Allergy shots, under-the-tongue tablets, lifestyle changes, nasal saline spray |
| Symptoms | Itchy eyes, runny nose, sneezing, throat-clearing, coughing, rashes, hives, stomachaches, cramps, nausea |
| Complications | Chronic ear or sinus infections, asthma attacks, eczema flares, earaches, decreased hearing |
| Risk factors | Family history of allergies, exposure to allergens, age (children under 2 are less likely to have environmental allergies) |
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What You'll Learn
Use antihistamines to block the effects of histamines
If your 6-year-old is struggling to sleep due to allergies, you may want to consider giving them an antihistamine to block the effects of histamines. Histamines are a natural body chemical triggered by the immune system, and they can cause allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and an itchy, runny nose. Antihistamines work by blocking histamines, which helps to alleviate these symptoms.
There are two types of antihistamines: first-generation and second-generation. First-generation antihistamines are older and have been on the market for a long time. They can make children sleepy and don't last very long. Occasionally, they may even cause children to become hyper and unable to sleep. Due to these side effects, first-generation antihistamines are not recommended for children under 6 years old.
Second-generation antihistamines are newer and cause less sleepiness in children. They also last longer and are dosed once per day. Non-drowsy, long-acting second-generation antihistamines like Claritin, Zyrtec, Allegra, and Xyzal are available in children's form over the counter and are generally safe for children ages 2 and older, as long as you get approval from your doctor. Another non-sedating antihistamine option is loratadine or cetirizine.
It's important to note that you should avoid giving your child Benadryl unless your doctor tells you to, as it can cause severe and potentially fatal side effects in children under 2 years old, including convulsions and a rapid heart rate. Always read the labels carefully and do not give your child more than one oral antihistamine at a time unless directed by a healthcare provider.
In addition to antihistamines, there are other ways to help your child sleep better with allergies. You can try to limit their exposure to allergy triggers, such as keeping windows closed during peak pollen season and using air conditioning to filter the air. You can also try home treatments such as rinsing their face to remove pollen, using a warm compress on their nose or forehead, or using lubricating eye drops for itchy eyes.
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Try a nasal spray to flush out allergens
If your child is suffering from allergies, you may want to consider using a nasal spray to help them sleep better. Nasal sprays can be used to flush out allergens and provide relief from allergy symptoms such as congestion, sneezing, a runny nose, and an itchy nose.
There are various types of nasal sprays available, including steroid, antihistamine, and decongestant sprays. Steroid nasal sprays work by calming the immune system's response to allergens, reducing swelling and mucus in the nasal passages. They are generally safe for children and can be used daily. Antihistamine sprays, such as Astepro Allergy (azelastine), block histamine, a chemical released in response to allergens, which causes symptoms like a runny nose and watery eyes. Antihistamine sprays work quickly, often within 15 minutes, and can be used to treat and prevent allergy symptoms. Decongestant nasal sprays provide fast and temporary relief from congestion by tightening the blood vessels in the nose, but they should not be used for more than 3 consecutive days.
For a 6-year-old child, you can consider using a nasal spray like Budesonide (Rhinocort Aqua), which is recommended for children as young as 6 years old. Another option is Nasacort Allergy 24 Hour, which provides 24-hour relief from nasal congestion, sneezing, a runny nose, and an itchy nose. It is scent-free, non-drowsy, and safe for daily use.
Before using a nasal spray, always consult a healthcare professional or your child's doctor to ensure it is suitable for your child's specific needs. They can advise you on the correct dosage and usage instructions. Additionally, it is important to read the labels carefully and follow the directions provided with the nasal spray.
To further help your child sleep better with allergies, you can try additional measures such as limiting their exposure to allergy triggers, using a warm compress on their face, and ensuring they wash their hands and face after playing outdoors to reduce pollen contact.
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Remove dust-collecting items from the bedroom
If your 6-year-old is suffering from allergies, one of the best things you can do is to reduce their exposure to allergens in their bedroom. Dust mites, pet dander, and cockroaches are common indoor allergens, and dust mites, in particular, can be a major cause of allergies.
Remove Carpets
Carpets provide a comfortable habitat for dust mites, especially if they are laid over concrete, which holds moisture and provides a humid environment for mites. If possible, replace wall-to-wall bedroom carpeting with tile, wood, linoleum, or vinyl flooring. If you must have carpets, opt for low-pile carpets or throw rugs that can be washed regularly.
Replace Upholstered Furniture
Upholstered furniture can also harbour dust mites and other allergens, so consider replacing it with furniture that has bare or wooden surfaces.
Remove Non-Washable Curtains and Blinds
Non-washable curtains and horizontal blinds can collect dust and mites, so replace them with roll-down shades or washable curtains.
Keep Surfaces Uncluttered
Clutter collects dust and mites, so keep surfaces in the bedroom clean and uncluttered. Remove knick-knacks, tabletop ornaments, books, magazines, and newspapers from the bedroom.
Use Allergen-Resistant Bedding
Special covers for pillows and mattresses can help keep dust mites away. Wash all bedding, including sheets, blankets, pillowcases, and bedcovers, in hot water (at least 54.4 °C or 130 °F) to kill dust mites and remove allergens. If bedding cannot be washed hot, put the items in the dryer for at least 15 minutes at a temperature above 54.4 °C or 130 °F.
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Consult a doctor about sublingual immunotherapy
Allergies are the most common cause of chronic nasal congestion in children, which can lead to a restless night's sleep and subsequent tiredness the next day. If your 6-year-old is suffering from allergies, there are a few things you can do to help them sleep better. Firstly, identify the allergy triggers and try to avoid them. Common allergens include pollen, pet dander, dust mites, certain foods, and seasonal irritants like grass and tree pollen. Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons and ensure your child washes their hands and face after playing outside.
If your child is suffering from a stuffy nose, you can try a decongestant, but be cautious as these can sometimes cause hyperactivity and sleep disturbances. Instead, opt for a nasal saline spray to flush out allergens and relieve congestion. Sterilized salt water sprays and lubricating eye drops can also help soothe irritated noses and itchy eyes.
For more severe allergies, consult your doctor about medication options. Oral antihistamines can help with itching, sneezing, and runny noses, but be aware that older antihistamines may cause drowsiness. Newer, second-generation antihistamines are less likely to cause sleepiness and are typically dosed once per day.
If your child's allergies are severe or persistent, your doctor may recommend allergy shots or sublingual immunotherapy. Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) is a promising treatment option for infants and toddlers with food allergies. It has been shown to be safe and effective in desensitizing children to allergens, particularly peanut allergies in children aged 1 to 4 years old. SLIT involves administering a small dose of the allergen under the tongue, gradually increasing the dose over time to reduce sensitivity.
Sublingual immunotherapy is a form of treatment that involves administering small doses of an allergen under the tongue. It is a promising option for infants and toddlers with food allergies, especially peanut allergies, as it has been shown to be safe and effective in desensitizing young children. A recent study on peanut-allergic children aged 1 to 4 years old found that SLIT resulted in a significantly higher median cumulative tolerated dose compared to a placebo. This suggests that SLIT can help children become less sensitive to allergens and improve their tolerance over time.
When considering SLIT for your child, it is important to consult a doctor to determine if it is a suitable treatment option. The doctor will assess your child's medical history, the severity of their allergies, and any potential risks or side effects. They may recommend SLIT if your child's allergies are not responding to other treatments or if avoidance of the allergen is not feasible. It is important to note that SLIT is typically a long-term treatment, and it may take several months or even years to see significant improvement.
The doctor will guide you through the process of SLIT, which usually involves starting with a very low dose of the allergen and gradually increasing it over time. This gradual exposure helps your child's immune system build tolerance to the allergen, reducing the severity of allergic reactions over time. The allergen extract used in SLIT is typically safe and well-tolerated, but it is essential to be aware of potential side effects, such as oropharyngeal itching. Your doctor will monitor your child's progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed to ensure optimal results.
While SLIT is a promising treatment option, it may not work for all children with allergies. Some studies have shown conflicting results, with one well-designed randomized controlled trial indicating that sublingual immunotherapy with grass pollen extract did not improve symptoms in children with allergic rhinoconjunctivitis. Therefore, it is crucial to consult a doctor to determine the best course of treatment for your child's specific needs. They may recommend SLIT as a safe and effective way to help your child manage their allergies and improve their quality of life.
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Minimise exposure to allergens by staying inside
Minimising exposure to allergens by staying inside is a strategy that many people with allergies adopt when pollen and mould counts are high. However, there are still allergens indoors that can cause problems, such as dust mites, pet dander, and even cockroaches. Here are some ways to minimise exposure to allergens by staying inside:
Improve Indoor Air Quality
- Use air conditioning to filter the air and keep windows and doors closed to prevent pollen and mould from entering.
- Increase the flow of outdoor air into your home when pollen and mould counts are lower.
- Reduce humidity as much as possible, as this decreases dust mites and mould growth. Air conditioners can help with this.
- Use air cleaning devices with Certified Asthma & Allergy-Friendly® filters to reduce allergen particles in the air.
Reduce Contact with Indoor Airborne Allergens
- Keep pets out of bedrooms and off furniture.
- Wash and change pet bedding and toys often.
- Cover vents with dense material, such as cheesecloth.
- Avoid dusting or disturbing surfaces where allergens may be present.
- Use special covers for pillows and mattresses to keep dust mites away.
- Replace carpets, rugs, and drapes with bare floors or low-pile carpets, as they collect dust.
Personal Hygiene
- Have your child wash their hands and face, or even take a shower, immediately after coming indoors to remove pollen from their skin and hair.
- Keep your child's hair short to reduce pollen collection.
- Change their clothes after they come inside, especially during high pollen seasons like spring and fall.
By implementing these strategies, you can help minimise your child's exposure to allergens while staying inside, which may improve their sleep quality and overall well-being.
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Frequently asked questions
There are a few things you can try to help your child sleep through their allergies. Firstly, identify the cause of the allergies. Common causes include pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and certain foods. Once you know the cause, try to limit your child's exposure to the allergen. You can also try over-the-counter allergy medications, such as antihistamines, nasal sprays, or eye drops. These can help relieve symptoms such as itchy eyes, runny nose, and congestion.
Yes, there are some natural remedies that may help your child sleep better with allergies. These include using a humidifier in their room, having them rinse their sinuses with sterile salt water, and keeping their bedding and living space free of allergens. You can also try giving them a warm bath before bed to help them relax and open up their airways.
If your child's allergies are severe or interfering with their sleep and daily activities, it is recommended to take them to see a doctor or allergist. Additionally, if your child is showing signs of anaphylaxis, such as impaired breathing or a sudden drop in blood pressure, seek immediate medical attention.
