Our Top Tips to Help Your Child Nip Springtime Allergies in the Bud

While most people look forward to the snow melting and the warmer weather coming in just a few months, spring isn’t necessarily a sign of good news for everyone. About 25% of adults and 20% of children have seasonal allergies. 

Springtime allergies, also known as hay fever and allergic rhinitis, occur when irritants or allergens enter your child’s nose, mouth, or eyes and trigger an allergic reaction. This reaction results in symptoms that can include a runny nose, itchy eyes, scratchy throat, and hives or a rash. 

These symptoms can make your child’s life miserable and yours, too. Fortunately, there are many effective ways to minimize or eliminate allergy symptoms so your child can enjoy the spring weather and all the fun outdoor activities that go with it. 

Here at Sima Stein MD, located in San Jose, California, our board-certified pediatrician Dr. Sima Stein can help you determine your child’s allergy triggers and work with you to create a personalized plan to help nip springtime allergies in the bud. Take a look at her top tips to prevent allergens from entering your child’s system.

Close windows

You may think opening your windows when the warmer weather arrives and letting fresh air in can help clear the allergens away. But, unfortunately, you’re only inviting pollen and other airborne allergens into your home. Keeping your windows closed, and turning on the air conditioner are better choices.

Wash up

Another effective way to shut the door on allergens is for your child who has allergies to get into the habit of washing their hands and face as soon as they get home. Additionally, your child should throw their clothes into the wash and put on clean ones. To be extra cautious, you and the rest of your family should do the same. 

Keep an eye on pollen counts

While you have some control over your home, you have no control over the elements and weather. When it comes to tracking pollen and other air quality measures that may affect you, there is — as the saying goes — an app for that. 

Use local weather and air quality tracking websites or apps to stay up to date on conditions that may exacerbate or trigger your child’s allergies. And, if necessary, keep them home or send them outside for brief periods, perhaps with a mask or glasses. 

Take allergy medications early and consistently

Depending on the severity and type of allergies, Dr. Stein may prescribe medications and/or immunotherapy to help your child build up a tolerance to specific allergens as part of their personalized allergy plan. 

Medication can help your child enjoy playing and staying outdoors without worrying about suffering from symptoms. It’s most effective to start medication at the beginning of the season and not stop when symptoms subside. 

If your child has springtime allergies, call the office of Sima Stein, MD, to learn more about how to prevent troublesome allergy symptoms. You can also request an appointment online.