As experts predict a higher-than-usual pollen count this Spring, new research reveals a lack of understanding and parental diagnosis of allergic rhinitis — or hay fever — in Aussie children. So, how do you know if your child has a cold or hay fever symptoms?
As spring nears and allergy season sets to peak, new research commissioned by Zyrtec® reveals a concerning lack of awareness of allergic rhinitis. This condition affects millions of Australians and can start as early as four years old.
The national survey of 1,000 Australian parents, revealed nearly 6 in 10 parents (57%) are unaware of the term. As a result of symptom confusion and misdiagnosis, allergic rhinitis could greatly impact their children’s quality of life while burning a hole in their wallets.
Allergic rhinitis results in symptoms that can cause sneezing, runny noses and watery, itchy eyes. While many Aussies have heard of hay fever, symptoms of allergic rhinitis can be triggered all year round. It can be triggered by things like dust, pet dander and mould.
When left untreated, allergic rhinitis can greatly affect children’s quality of life. It can result in poor sleep quality, fatigue, and daytime sleepiness. This can impact learning and performance in school, as well as sports and playtime.
Misdiagnosing allergic rhinitis could be costing Aussie parents hundreds every year
The research found nearly 40% of Australian parents are not fully aware of the common allergens that can affect children. Consequently, symptoms such as sneezing, watery eyes and congestion can be mistaken for the common cold.
In fact, symptom confusion and misdiagnosis could be costing parents hundreds every year. This is because parents surveyed claim they took their children out of daycare an average of four days in the last 12 months due to allergic rhinitis symptoms.
Hay fever symptoms in kids – what to look for
Parents are being reminded that children may not be able to describe their symptoms accurately. Therefore, there are simple behaviours that may indicate children are suffering from allergic rhinitis, including:
- The ‘allergic salute’ – a continued pushing of the nose tip upwards.
- The nasal crease – a line across the middle of the nose. (as a result of allergic salute)
- Allergic shiners – dark circles under the eyes caused by congestion of the nose.
Phoebe Burgess reading her new book about hayfever symptoms for kids
Launch of Zach and Zoe’s Hide and Sneeze
Inspired by her own journey and raising two children who suffer from allergic rhinitis, celebrity author Phoebe Burgess has collaborated with Zyrtec® on a new storybook. Zach and Zoe’s Hide and Sneeze aims to help Aussie parents recognise the signs of allergic rhinitis and hay fever symptoms in kids.
The book places allergic rhinitis top of mind for parents ahead of the spring allergy season. The playful story sheds light on the most common allergy triggers and hay fever symptoms in children.
Phoebe Burgess said: “Unless you’re familiar with the signs of allergic rhinitis or hay fever symptoms, it can feel overwhelming seeing your little ones suffer. Especially if you don’t know what causes it, or how to treat it.”
Zach and Zoe’s Hide and Sneeze will be available as a free gift with purchase at Chemist Warehouse, Terry White Chemmart and other participating independent pharmacies from 1 September to 30 November 2024, or until stocks last. It will also be available as a downloadable e-book from local participating grocery stores.
For more information about allergic rhinitis, hay fever symptoms and the new book, visit the Zyrtec website: www.zyrtec.com.au/storytime
The information on this website is not intended to constitute medical advice and is provided for general information purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute for advice from a qualified medical professional who can advise you about your own individual medical needs.
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