By Lee Flynn
By now, it’s well documented that rhinitis runs in families, which makes children of parents with allergic disease more likely to develop them. Fortunately, understanding the condition can help manage it and symptoms from occurring in the future.
What is Rhinitis?
The term allergic rhinitis refers to a diagnosis that is associated with numerous nasal symptoms. The symptoms will occur when someone breathes in a substance they are allergic to, such as pollen, animal dander or dust. It can also occur when consuming a food. Studies suggest up to 28 percent of Americans suffer from rhinitis.
Symptoms that can manifest in children include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Skin rashes
- Hives
- Stomach upset
- Sneezing and coughing
- Runny nose or itchy eyes
Some common substances that can trigger allergies in children include:
- Food: Peanuts, milk, milk products, eggs, shellfish
- Indoors: Animal or pet fur, mold, dust mites
- Outside: Plant pollen, tree pollen, stings or insect bites
- Other irritants: Car exhaust, perfume, cigarette smoke
Dust Mites
Because some airborne substances might result in allergic symptoms, it’s best to reduce all contact with such substances as much as possible. Dust mites offer the clearest example in this regard. If your child develops allergies from dust mites, it’s a good idea to take control of the situation and clean your home.
For best results, keeping indoor humidity to under 50 percent while using allergen-impermeable pillow and mattress covers can go a long way. Be sure to use hot water to wash bedding on a weekly basis. If possible, it’s best to keep any upholstered furniture or carpet out of the bedroom. If not, an upholstery cleaner can help keep furniture free of mites.
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Pet Allergens
Unfortunately, there is no such thing as a breed of dog that can be classified as hypoallergenic. This is because people aren’t usually allergic to the fur of the animal so much as the allergen of dander or in urine and saliva.
Symptoms of allergies can occur in just minutes, with the most severe of symptoms occurring after 12 hours. The reaction can occur if dander was transferred to clothing, so be sure to wash clothes regularly.
Cockroaches
Often found in densely populated neighborhood homes, cockroaches can exist just about anywhere. It doesn’t mean your home is dirty, but you do need to solve the problem to reduce allergy triggers.
To do this, block any possible entrance for the insects, including windows, wall cracks and other crevices. Fix any leaky faucets or pipes as well since cockroaches are attracted to water for their survival. Finally, an exterminator can also investigate when the pets and family are out of the home.
Indoor Mold
In the damp environments of bathrooms, kitchen cabinets or basements, indoor molds and mildew will start to grow and trigger their own allergic symptoms. On hard surfaces, mold growth can be stopped with a mixture of water, detergent and 5 percent bleach–no other cleaners included. After scrubbing the area, dry it thoroughly. If more than 10 square feet in the home is covered in mold, it’s better to opt for a mold removal company and don’t forget to do cabinet refinishing.
Finally, be sure to repair any leaking pipes or roofs. It can help to add a dehumidifier to a damp basement, but it’s important to regularly clean the unit and empty the water tank or else the unit itself will develop mildew. Every room in your home needs ventilation and cleanliness to pretend the growth of mold and mildew.
Whether you enlist additional services to help with your child’s rhinitis or not, it’s important to notify his or her school of known allergies. Those who suffer from severe allergies or asthma should have a plan of action in the event of a trigger. This includes access to emergency medication.
Learn more about allergy symptoms and your baby? Chat and share with moms and moms-to-be just like you. Download the Preggie app now.