It’s a Woman’s World: Allergy season explodes in full bloom

If your family is spending more time outdoors now that warmer temperatures have arrived, you might notice more sniffling and sneezing around the house. With springtime allergy season in full bloom, let’s learn how to prevent, identify and treat childhood allergies with tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics.

“First, you should be able to recognize allergy symptoms so your child can be treated appropriately. Common childhood allergies produce symptoms that include repeated or chronic cold symptoms, such as a runny nose, nasal stuffiness, sneezing and watery eyes.

Itching or tingling sensations in the mouth and throat rarely occur with a cold but can often indicate that your child suffers from an allergy. Lastly, coughing, wheezing or other respiratory problems can identify the onset of an allergy.

“If your child suffers from any of these symptoms, it’s also important to identify the cause of the allergy. While pollen from trees, grasses and weeds are common causes of allergies in the spring, other culprits exist within the home. Dust, mold, furry animals and latex can also trigger the allergy symptoms listed above.

“If you suspect your child has allergies, don’t hesitate to visit your pediatrician. Your doctor might suggest an antihistamine or decongestant to relieve symptoms.

Allergy immunotherapy, or allergy shots, can also help eliminate allergies to dust, pollen and outdoor molds.

“In addition to these medical treatments, you can help prevent allergies with a few simple steps. Although children cannot completely avoid pollen and mold, using an air conditioner at home and in the car can reduce exposure to these allergy triggers.

If your child is allergic to dust, consider purchasing allergen-proof covers for padded furniture, which often serves as a harbor for dust mites.

You can also wash linens weekly and other bedding every two to three weeks to reduce exposure to dust.