The spring allergy season is here, and even if you don't react negatively to pollen and other seasonal irritants, it could be a different story for your children.
"If your child's allergy symptoms are interfering with his or her daily life, there is no reason to let the child suffer," pediatric allergist Dr. Joyce Rabbit said in a Loyola University Health System press release. "Allergy symptoms are very treatable. Some people think it's just something they need to 'live with' but that's not the case."
Here are some tips for parents of kids with allergies:
Avoid making assumptions – You may think your children are too young to develop allergies, but doctors say that they can develop in kids as young as 3 years old.
Don't play detective – Only an allergy specialist can determine for sure if your children have allergies and what exactly they are allergic to. It's important to get a definitive answer, as symptoms and treatments vary depending on the allergen. A doctor can also prescribe medication that will keep your little ones comfortable during the spring and summer.
Limit exposure to irritants – Of course, you don't want to keep your kids indoors just as the weather is starting to get nicer, but there are certain times of the day when pollen is more prevalent. When your children come inside after playing outdoors, make sure they wash their hands and face and even consider having them change their clothes.
It's a good idea for parents of children with allergies to take the proper steps to minimize their symptoms. In addition to following the advice in this article, you may want to consider investing in a whole house air purifier that can remove allergens directly from the air.
