Helping Your Child Manage Their Allergies

The American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology states that the top chronic condition that affects children in the U.S. is allergies. To safeguard your child from allergens at home and outside, it’s imperative that you know what your child’s allergy triggers are.

Here at Downers Grove Pediatrics, our pediatricians in our Downers Grove, IL, and Bolingbrook, IL, the office can help you learn about your child’s allergies and create an allergy management plan that you and your child can follow.

Top Tips for Managing Allergies at Home

Kids who are allergic to pets shouldn’t keep pets outside the bedroom. If avoidance still doesn’t work, you may have to find your pet a new family. Allergies to dust and mites are likewise very common in kids. In this light, pillows and mattresses should be contained in allergy-proof plastic coverings. Avoid placing stuffed toys on the bed and rugs or carpets on the floor. Wash or change sheets at least once a week.

Also, keep in mind that indoor air pollution that comes from aerosol sprays, cooking fumes, and wood fires could exacerbate allergy symptoms. Using an air conditioner and a proper ventilation system can also help with your indoor air quality. Don’t smoke inside the house. Additionally, if your child is allergic to pests like cockroaches and mice, get your home examined and treated by an exterminator. Don’t leave food crumbs on surfaces and store food in tightly covered containers.

Safeguard your kid from outdoor allergens by monitoring pollen counts and air pollution. These are typically at their highest before noon so you might need to restrict playing outside during those times. You should likewise keep all windows and doors closed. Have your child change clothes and/or take a bath after playing outside.

Managing Allergies in School

Exposure to allergens in school involves plenty of the risks that are also found at home, but there’s an added danger for kids who have food allergies. Prior to going to school, parents should discuss their child’s allergies and the school’s medication policies with the teachers and school health professionals. This is particularly critical for children who’ve had a severe allergic reaction before and require auto-injectable epinephrine.

With accurate medical evaluation and allergy treatment by your pediatrician in our Downers Grove, IL, or Bolingbrook, IL, office, you can ensure your child’s safety inside and outside the house.

Contact Us For Help Managing Your Child’s Allergies

Call our Bolingbrook, IL, office at (630) 759-9230 or our Downers Grove, IL, office at (630) 852-4551 to arrange an appointment with your pediatrician here at Downers Grove Pediatrics.