How to Help Your Child Cope with Allergies

Don’t let allergies get the better of your little one. Here are some ways to reduce their symptoms.

Does your child always seem to be sneezing or coughing? Does your little one often develop skin rashes or stomachaches after eating? If so, then your child may be suffering from allergies. While any child can develop allergies, they are often most common in children whose families also have a history of allergies. By identifying these issues early on, our Grayslake, IL pediatricians can help them manage their symptoms.

The Right Medicine for the Job

One of the first steps you’ll want to take to reduce your child’s allergy symptoms is to talk to our Grayslake, children’s doctor about which type of medication or medications could help control your child’s specific symptoms. It’s important to determine the causes and triggers of your child’s symptoms so that we can help them better cope with their issues. If medications haven’t been working as effectively as they should talk to us about whether immunotherapy (also known as allergy shots) might be more advantageous for your little one.

After you’ve discussed your child’s medication options for targeting their allergies here are some other strategies to help:

Pets: While no dog is truly hypoallergenic there are certainly kinds of pet breeds that shed very little or not at all. Of course, by brushing and bathing your pet often (do this outdoors to keep allergens away from your child) you can keep down the dander on your pet and in the house.

Outdoors: Whether your child wants to play sports or just play outside, if your child has severe outdoor allergies you may want to consider indoor sports like martial arts or dance that can still keep your little one stimulated and active but without the allergies and asthma flare-ups. Pollen counts are usually at their highest between the hours of 5am and 10am, so limit how much time your child spends outside during this time. Have your child come in and shower or wash their hands after being outdoors.

Vacations: Nothing is better than a family vacation but how much fun can it be if your child is suffering from allergies the whole time? If you find that their allergies pop up during the spring or summer months, then it might be time to consider a full winter or fall trip. Take up winter skiing or camping together under the beautiful fall leaves.

Mundelein Pediatrics in Grayslake, IL is dedicated to giving your child the healthiest life possible. If they are dealing with allergies that affect their day-to-day lives then it’s time you gave us a call today.