How do you know when your child suffering from seasonal allergies?
Have you noticed your child rubbing his or her nose upward using the heel of the hand? This is called the "allergic salute" – and it usually means your child is suffering from allergies. Other signs to look for include a runny nose, itchy eyes and ears, watery eyes, sniffling and sneezing, and a thin, clear nasal drainage that just won’t seem to go away. Other symptoms could be headache, fatigue, and patches of itchy, red skin that persist.
For school-aged children, allergies can cause fatigue and loss of concentration at school. Trouble sleeping, an increase in ear and sinus infections, and even behavioral issues from lack of sleep.
WHAT CAN YOU DO AT HOME?
-When your child comes in from school or playing outside – wash their hands and face right away. This will help keep them from rubbing pollen into their eyes and nose.
-Dry laundry in the dryer because pollen can stick to clothing. Drying clothes outside can make allergies worse.
-Bedtime baths and showers are best, to help alleviate nighttime allergy symptoms and help your child rest better.
-Check pollen levels and do your best to limit outdoor activities when pollen counts are at their highest.
CLEANING TIPS TO HELP WITH ALLERGIES
1. Dust mites are the enemy! They are a common trigger of allergies and asthma symptoms. They
thrive on dust, so dust all furniture and surfaces with a non-toxic cleaner.
2. Use a damp rag or duster to keep blinds and picture frames dust-free.
3. Remove window treatments, as they harbor dust and allergens. If you can’t live without them,
then launder them frequently.
4. Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter on carpets and floors to pick up as many allergens as
possible in your home.
5. Bedding is when you get the most exposure to dust. So use mattress covers on mattresses, box
springs, pillows and cushions.
6. Wash bedding in HOT soapy water at least once a week.
7. Kill dust mites on your child’s favorite stuffed animal by putting them in a plastic bag and place
in the freezer overnight.
8. Clean mold and mildew in damp areas, these can really worsen allergies.
If your child is suffering from allergies, make an appointment and let us help. A simple blood test can help us detect what allergies your child is dealing with. And, not all over-the-counter allergy medications are a good idea. If congestion is really bad, your child may need antibiotics or other treatments. And, many have side effects that are no fun for your little one.
Our Pediatrics and Family Practice Clinics are available Monday through Friday from 8am to 5pm. And the Urgent Care Center is open every day of the week. If your child needs some relief, please give us a call: 251-974-2273 and schedule today.
Important note: ALWAYS Read labels carefully for the active ingredient and do not give your child more than one oral antihistamine at a time unless under the direction of a healthcare provider.