Children have fun playing outdoor team sports in the summer. Still, it can be difficult for parents if their child is allergic to grass. Among allergens, grass is one of the most potent and can cause symptoms from mild itching to severe respiratory issues. However, allergic reactions shouldn’t prevent a child from playing sports because parents can take the following steps to minimize their children’s exposure.
1. Speak with the coach
It is essential to converse with the coach before the start of the season and inform them of your child’s grass allergy. This allows the coach time to take steps to limit your child’s exposure to grass, perhaps changing practice venues or the coaching structure. The coach may also help you to identify specific problem areas (the wing of the soccer field, for instance) where your child is more likely to experience a reaction.
2. Prepare your child
Laying the foundation for an allergic reaction is not to be taken lightly. It is our job as parents to ensure our children understand the potential dangers involved so that they can not only recognize when they are at risk but can also take immediate action by, for example, seeing that they have the right attire to protect themselves and by following good practices, such as washing up when they’re finished.
3. Consider allergy medication
Allergy medication may be necessary to alleviate symptoms if your child has a serious allergy. There are a few different kinds of medicines that can be used to treat allergies, depending on the specific situation and allergy in question. Some allergy medicines are antihistamines, which help decrease itching, sneezing, and a runny nose. Others are decongestants, which work to shrink blood vessels and reduce the amount of congestion. Lastly, some are corticosteroids (nasal and inhaled), usually reserved for more serious symptoms or acute situations at first.
Reference:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/allergies/in-depth/allergy-medications/art-20047403
4. Try non-grass fields
Numerous non-grass alternatives exist in the world of sports today. Synthetic turf and clay surfaces are just two examples of these non-traditional options. For children with grass allergies, these can provide a way to enjoy sports and play without the exposure risks often present on a real grass field, so it is important to consult with a doctor and take precautions accordingly.
5. Consult with an allergist
If your child has a severe allergy, you may need to see an allergist for additional evaluation and treatment. This specialist can conduct skin or blood tests to identify the offending substance and devise an individualized treatment plan. They can also offer guidance on avoiding the allergen—be it tree nuts, pollen, or something else—as well as advice on lowering the chance of exposure during the folly of a team sport.
Final Thoughts
For kids who enjoy playing team sports, allergies can throw quite an obstacle in their way – especially when the sport involves running around on a field full of grass, as many do during the summer. But there’s no need to keep your child from enjoying the camaraderie and exercise of a team sport. These days, there are too many good allergy treatments to consider. And, most importantly, you don’t have to face the problem alone. Consult with an allergist, your child can still enjoy the benefits of team sports without the risk of an allergic reaction.