It’s that time of year again! Fall, and with it, children’s allergies are on the rise. The American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology reports that grass pollen and mold spores account for most allergy symptoms in kids during October and November in Central and South Texas – but these aren’t the only culprits! Tree and weed pollen, as well as dust mites and cat dander, can also contribute to seasonal allergic symptoms if your child isn’t following an effective treatment plan.
Allergies are caused by a person’s immune system overreacting to substances that are usually harmless. Pollen, animal dander, dust mites, and mold spores are common causes of allergies.
The common allergies people experiences are hay fever (also called allergic rhinitis) and seasonal allergies. Seasonal allergies are caused by pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. Hay fever is caused by pollens from trees, grasses and weeds that are not produced year-round. They may also be triggered by ragweed, mold spores or animal hair. Allergies start when airborne allergens enter a person’s nose or eye and then attach to immune cells.
The American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) has some recommendations for how parents can help their children with allergies. The AAAAI recommends that parents who want to minimize exposure to allergens should keep their homes as dust-free as possible. This includes using a vacuum and dusting regularly.
While there is no surefire way to prevent allergies from developing, it’s important to take precautions. If a child has a family history of allergies or asthma, they may be more at risk for allergic reactions and should be closely monitored.
1. Try to limit the number of allergens your children come into contact with. For example, if they have allergies to dust mites and pollen, try not to bring them into a dusty home or a flowery garden.
2. If you have an EpiPen prescribed, make sure you have an EpiPen handy and are trained on how to use it.
3. Get allergy testing for your child if you’re not sure what their triggers are (or get them tested regularly).
4. Keep track of when symptoms occur so that you know what to avoid doing during these periods.
5. Talk with your child’s doctor about whether they should take antihistamines daily or just when needed.
6. Ask your pediatrician about using a neti pot instead of nasal sprays because some studies show that there may be links between long-term use of nose sprays and serious health issues. It is important to keep your kids hydrated as well.
You can ask them at school if they would like water or milk in addition to their usual lunchtime drink.
If you have any questions, please contact Pediatric Heroes Primary Care Clinic at 210-625-5708 or visit this website.
