Allergies In the Air: Triggers, symptoms and reducing them all

Pollen, mold, dust mites, pets - in children with allergies, these are among the things that can trigger symptoms that are difficult to tell apart from symptoms of the common cold:

• Sneezing, often with a runny or clogged nose
• Coughing
• Itching eyes, nose, and throat
• Watery eyes

Generally, allergy symptoms tend to hang on longer than cold symptoms. If your child has respiratory problems that last longer than a week or two, see your healthcare provider.

How to reduce exposure

These tips can help reduce your child's exposure to the most common culprits behind allergies in the air:

At Home

• Dust surfaces and wash bedding often to control the numbers of dust mites.
• Vacuum once or twice a week to reduce dust mites; make sure your vacuum has an air filter.
• If there are pets with feathers or fur in the home, don't let them sleep in your child's bedroom.
• Reduce indoor pollen by keeping windows and doors closed when possible.
• Limit growth of mold spores by reducing moisture in the bathroom and kitchen. Don't let plumbing leaks persist.
• Limit the number of houseplants, since they can carry pollen and mold, too.
• Use a dehumidifier to help reduce mold.

At School

• If plants, pets or dust are concerns in the classroom, talk with your child's teacher or principal about ways to reduce these items.
• Encourage your child to wash his hands after playing outside.

Outdoors

Trees, grasses and weeds are the most common plant carriers of the pollen that can cause allergy symptoms. Depending on where you live, different plants will release large amounts of pollen into the air at different times of year. Generally, mornings are the time when the most pollen is released, and even moreso on windy days. Check local conditions for peak seasons, and try to avoid too much outdoor exposure during those times.

When Traveling

• Keep car windows closed when traveling.
• Try to keep your child indoors when humidity and wind are high.
• Have your child bathe after being outside to wash off pollen that sticks to skin and hair.