Allergies
in Children
As if raising kids wasn’t
hard enough already, dealing with allergies in children can put
any parent over the edge. Thankfully, there are a number of ways
you can help reduce the symptoms of your child’s allergies,
making both your lives a little easier.
The first and possibly most important thing to do is to make sure
your child’s symptoms are actually from allergies, and not
from a cold. Once they have been tested, you can determine the allergen
or allergens that elicit a reaction and take steps accordingly.
Although all approaches aim to limit exposure to allergy triggers,
the way to address allergies in children depends on the type of
allergy they have:
- Seasonal allergies can be especially acute
simply because the same seasons that are bad for allergies are
also the best times to be outdoors playing. No one would want
to keep a kid inside all day, but after they’re done playing,
nasal washes can provide some relief by carrying away pollen
and other particles that can cause a reaction. In addition,
have them change their clothes when they come back inside so
they aren’t carrying or spreading the pollen around.
- Unlike seasonal allergies, indoor allergies
in children can be seen all year long. The best way to reduce
these symptoms is by keeping a rigorous cleaning regimen using
a HEPA filter vacuum to suck up dust and a damp cloth to wipe
surfaces. A HEPA air filter, cleaning couches often, and frequently
washing bedding can also help.
Oftentimes, allergies in children come in
two’s, and your child may have both seasonal and indoor allergies.
However, by implementing some of the techniques above, you can minimize
symptoms and help your child lead a happier, healthier life.
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