Syracuse Parent and CNY Family

Dr. Monica Jones is a pediatrician with Syracuse Pediatrics. Reach her at www.syracusepediatrics.com. To send a health-related question to the doctor, write to editor@syracuseparent.net

Parents can reduce allergy attacks
Posted on Tue, February 5th, 2008
Written by: Monica Jones, MD, Pediatrician/Syracuse Pediatrics
email: editor@syracuseparent.net

We can’t wait until spring and things start to bloom—until that is our kids start sneezing, itching and have a runny nose. Some kids, however, don’t just have that problem in the nice weather. Many children suffer from what we call perennial allergies, which means they have symptoms year round. These allergies are usually triggered by indoor allergens like dust mites, animal dander and mold. Have no fear though. Once you learn about your child’s triggers, you can create a safe, comfortable home.
First thing is to make sure your child is really suffering from allergies and not just a cold. If he/she has a clear runny nose, itching and sneezing that does not resolve in a few weeks, then they probably suffer from allergies. Allergy testing can help tell what your child is allergic to (but doesn’t need to be done on every child with allergic symptoms). This can be done either with a blood test called RAST or skin-prick testing. Each has its advantages.
Some of the more common indoor allergens are house dust, dust mites, mold, cockroaches and animal dander. What can you do to help your child? You can start helping them when they are first born. Recent studies have proven that babies who are exclusively breast fed for at least four months may show a delay in developing atopic disease. Atopic diseases include eczema, asthma and allergies.
If your child still develops allergies, don’t fret. There are still some things you can do to help keep them comfortable. Here are some tips from the AAAAI (American Academy of Asthma, Allergy and Immunology) to help allergy proof your home.
1. Remove extra clutter in your home that may be collecting dust. Dust also settles in carpeting. If possible, remove carpeting and replace it with washable throw rugs. Also, don’t store anything under the bed.
2. Put mattresses, box springs and pillows in special plastic cases that are allergy-proof or “non-allergenic.” Studies have proven that these reduce dust mites. Also wash blankets, sheets and pillowcases in 130 degree water every week.
3. If possible, keep pets out of the bedroom. This may decrease your exposure to animal dander. Wash your hands after touching pets.
4. Clean moldy surfaces, such as the corners of showers or under the sink. Fix leaks that may leave surfaces wet and allow mold to grow. Avoid having carpeting in bathrooms or basements.
5. To keep cockroaches out of your home, keep food in containers with tight lids and wash dishes immediately after use in hot, soapy water. Clean under stoves, refrigerators or toasters where loose crumbs can accumulate. Block areas where they could enter the home, especially small spaces, like wall cracks, window or floor cracks, cellar doors and outside drains.
In-home air filters, HEPA filters, may also help filter out some indoor allergens. Another very important point is that children with allergies should absolutely avoid things in the air that can irritate them, even if they are not truly allergic to them. This includes things like tobacco smoke, paint, perfumes, cleaning products or other strong smells. So as I keep saying – STOP SMOKING!
If your child has symptoms despite all of this, there are several excellent prescription and over-the-counter medications that may be prescribed to help alleviate symptoms. If necessary, they may also be referred to an allergy specialist.
Remember that like most of the things we talk about, prevention starts at home.

Dr. Monica Jones is a pediatrician with Syracuse Pediatrics. Reach her at www.syracusepediatrics.com. To send a health-related question to the doctor, write to editor@syracuseparent.net