While allergy season used to be viewed as a seasonal, from March to
June problem, environmental factors and pollution seem to be causing yearlong suffering.
According to the Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America, allergies are the third most common chronic disease in children under 18. In fact, children in the United States miss about 2 million school days each year because of allergy symptoms.
Causes can include factors inside and outside of the home such as pollen, dust mites, mold, pet dander, pet saliva, pollution.
In most cases symptoms resemble those of the common cold, but in severe cases, an allergy attack can result in rashes, hives, asthma attacks and even death.
What to do
Dust to control Mites. By dusting surfaces and washing bedding often, you can control the amount of dust in the home.
Vacuum often. Although cleaning can sometimes trigger allergic reactions, with dust in the air, vacuuming once or twice a week will reduce the surface dust mites.
Reduce pet dander. Avoid pets with feathers or fur such as birds, dogs and cats. Animal saliva and dead skin or pet dander, can cause allergic reactions. Keep pets out of the bedroom.
Shut out pollen. An easy way to prevent pollen from entering the home is to keep windows and doors closed. Use an air filter and clean it regularly or run the air conditioner and change the filter often.
Avoid mold spores. Mold spores grow in moist areas. If you reduce the moisture in the bathroom and kitchen, you will reduce the mold. Fix any leaks inside and outside of your home and clean moldy surfaces. Plants can
carry pollen and mold too, so limit the number of houseplants. Dehumidifiers will also help reduce mold.
Hand washing. Encourage hand washing after outside play.
Parents, concerned about the possible side effects of prescription medications, are looking for safer ways to help their children with allergies.
Here are a few safer ways that may offer relief
Neti pot, Quercetin, EFA fish oil, Butterbur, Stinging Nettle and chiropractic adjustments to boost natural immunity.