(BPT) - If you're the parent of children with allergies or asthma that tends to flare up in the fall, now is the time you typically should start preparing for them to go back to school. But one thing might make this year's fall allergy season a bit more severe than others: The recent wild weather much of the country has been experiencing over the spring and summer.
Deluges of rain, unprecedented heatwaves and heavy storms have been the norm for most of us, and all of that can contribute to the severity of allergy symptoms, including hay fever and pollen allergies.
"Molds grow quickly in heat and high humidity, and a rainy spring can also promote rapid plant growth and lead to an increase in molds, causing symptoms to last well into the fall," said allergist Gailen Marshall, MD, PhD, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). "Because allergies and asthma can impact a child's school day, and even their overall academic performance, it's important for parents to prepare for the triggers that can cause allergic reactions."
The ACAAI offers these six tips for parents to get a handle on allergies and asthma so their children can start off the school year healthy and ready to learn.
Know your child's triggers. What is causing those itchy eyes and runny noses? Knowing what you're up against is the first step in treating it. Be especially mindful of allergens that can be found in a classroom, including dust, molds and pet dander on other kids' clothes and backpacks. If you don't know the triggers, it's time to see an allergist.
Make an allergist appointment before school starts. Board-certified allergists are uniquely trained and qualified to treat allergies and asthma. Your allergist will work with you to create a plan to minimize the impact of your child's allergies. Make sure your child's prescriptions are up to date and adjusted (if necessary), if they've had a growth spurt or their weight has changed over the summer. And have their prescription paperwork in order if your child needs to carry medication with them to school.
Educate your child on food allergies. School cafeterias are a high-risk zone for children with food allergies and a big worry for parents. Make sure your child knows what they're allergic to, the foods to avoid, the symptoms to watch out for, and what they need to do if they feel those symptoms coming on. If your child needs an epinephrine auto injector, make sure they have two in their backpack at all times. Your allergist is your ally in this important, lifesaving step.
Create an asthma plan. Childhood asthma affects some six million children in the U.S. If your child is one of them, make sure he or she carries their inhaler and is knowledgeable about what might trigger an attack. School personnel should also have a copy of your child's asthma plan.
Loop in school personnel. Talk with your child's teachers, school nurses and even cafeteria workers. They can be important allies, especially if your child has food allergies and asthma. A conversation before the school year is in full swing can make them aware that your child has an allergy or asthma, and whether they may need to take medication or use an epinephrine auto injector or an inhaler.
Consider immunotherapy. Managing symptoms is one thing, but treating the underlying allergy itself may be a more permanent solution. Immunotherapy is extremely effective for treating some allergies and can help control asthma. Many allergies can be treated with allergy immunotherapy in the form of shots or tablets, and your child could reap the benefits by seeing their symptoms decrease.
If your child's allergy and asthma symptoms are getting in the way of them living their best life, especially at school, use the ACAAI allergist locator to find an allergist in your area.
