Can Babies Get Hayfever? A Parent’s Guide to Allergy Symptoms in Infants
As the days get warmer and flowers bloom, many families begin enjoying time outdoors. But for some little ones, the changing seasons bring more than sunshine and fresh air—they bring sneezes, itchy eyes, and sniffles. If you’ve noticed these symptoms in your baby, you might be asking: Can babies get hayfever?
It’s a valid concern, especially for parents who suffer from allergies themselves. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about hayfever in babies, how to recognise the symptoms, safe treatment options, and when to seek professional help.
What Is Hayfever?
Hayfever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is an allergic reaction to airborne particles such as pollen, mould, dust mites, or pet dander. It’s most commonly triggered during spring and summer when pollen levels are high, although some children are affected year-round.When someone has hayfever, their immune system mistakenly identifies harmless substances like pollen as threats. This triggers the release of histamine, leading to inflammation in the nasal passages, eyes, and throat.
Can Babies Get Hayfever?
The short answer is yes—babies can have hayfever, although it’s not very common in the first few months of life.
Can Newborns Get Hayfever?
It’s extremely rare for newborns (under 6 months) to experience hayfever. Their immune systems haven’t had enough exposure to allergens like pollen to develop an allergic response. If your newborn is showing cold-like symptoms, it's more likely a virus or teething rather than hayfever.
When Does Hayfever Typically Appear?
In most cases, hayfever in children begins after 6 months to 1 year of age. This is when their immune systems become more reactive, especially if there’s a family history of allergies, asthma, or eczema.
Signs of Hayfever in Babies
Recognising hayfever symptoms in babies can be tricky because they often resemble a cold. However, there are some clues that can help you tell the difference:
Common Symptoms of Hayfever in Babies:
- Frequent sneezing
- A clear, watery runny nose
- Nasal congestion without fever
- Red, itchy, or watery eyes
- Rubbing the eyes or nose
- Mild coughing, especially at night
- Disrupted sleep or irritability
One key difference from a cold: hayfever doesn’t cause a fever, and symptoms may last for weeks or months depending on the season.
If your baby seems to show these symptoms repeatedly during spring or summer, it could be due to hayfever in babies rather than recurring colds.
Why Do Some Babies Develop Hayfever?
Certain risk factors can increase your baby’s likelihood of developing allergies:
- Genetics – If you or your partner suffer from allergies, your baby may be more prone to them.
- Exposure to pollen or dust – Spending time outdoors or in dusty environments can trigger symptoms.
- Other allergic conditions – Babies with eczema or food allergies are more likely to develop hayfever later.
Can Babies Take Hayfever Medicine?
This is a common concern for parents. Can babies have hayfever medicine? And if so, what kind?
Children’s Hayfever Medicine: What’s Safe?
There are kids hayfever medicine options, but their use depends on your baby’s age and the severity of symptoms. It’s essential to talk to your GP before giving any over-the-counter treatment.
Options may include:
- Antihistamines – Such as cetirizine (Zirtek) or loratadine (Clarityn). These may be prescribed for babies over 6 months old.
- Saline nasal sprays – Help to clear allergens from the nasal passages and are safe for all ages.
- Nasal barrier balms – A gentle layer of balm around the nostrils can trap pollen and prevent it from being inhaled.
Some hayfever medicine for kids is only approved for ages 2 and up, so it’s crucial not to self-medicate a baby without medical advice.
How to Treat Hayfever in Babies Naturally
For many infants, especially under 1 year of age, the best approach to managing hayfever is through natural and non-medicated methods.
Safe At-Home Tips:
- Limit pollen exposure – Avoid outdoor walks during high pollen times (early morning and late evening).
- Keep windows closed – Especially during pollen-heavy days.
- Change clothes after going outside – Pollen can stick to fabric and skin.
- Wipe your baby’s face and hands – Use a damp cloth to remove allergens after outdoor exposure.
- Use a cool-mist humidifier – Keeps the air moist and soothes irritated nasal passages.
- Vacuum regularly – Use HEPA filters to trap allergens indoors.
These simple changes can significantly reduce hayfever in children without the need for medication.
When to See a Doctor
You should consult your GP if:
- Your baby’s symptoms persist for more than a week or two
- There’s no improvement with basic measures
- Feeding or sleep is being disrupted
- You suspect an allergic reaction
Your GP may recommend a trial of children’s hayfever medicine or refer you to a paediatric allergy specialist if needed.
What About Hayfever Injections?
For older children and adults with persistent and severe symptoms, hayfever injections (steroid injections or allergen immunotherapy) may be considered. These treatments help reduce the body’s allergic response to pollen over time.
However, it’s important to note that hayfever injections are not suitable for babies or very young children, and are only prescribed under specialist care in more extreme cases.
Final Thoughts
While hayfever in babies is less common than in older children, it is still possible—especially after 6 months of age. If your child has a history of allergies or begins showing persistent cold-like symptoms without a fever, it’s worth considering seasonal allergies as a cause.
Start with gentle, non-medicated approaches, and always seek advice before using kids hayfever medicine. Your GP can guide you on the safest and most effective treatment plan tailored to your baby’s age and needs.
As your child grows, symptoms may change, and more treatment options—including hayfever injections for older children—may become available. Staying informed and proactive is the key to helping your baby enjoy the seasons in comfort.
