Unlike in the case of food allergies, when a child is allergic to airborne allergens, such as house dust mites or pollen, it is not possible to completely avoid these triggers. However, there are some simple ways to reduce the presence of both dust mites and exposure to pollen.
How to Reduce House Dust Mites
House dust mites themselves are not the cause of a child's allergy, but the droppings they produce are, making it important to take simple steps to reduce these insects. As house dust mites are most commonly found in warm conditions, they are often located in beds, on carpets and on other furniture. During the cooler autumn and winter months, house dust mites are most prevalent, therefore it is well worth getting used to allergy reduction strategies now, in preparation for the autumn.
As identified by Goldman (2009) in Allergies: A Parent's Guide, action to reduce house dust mites may include the following:
- Wash bedding and cuddly toys weekly at 60 degrees.
- Dust surfaces with a damp cloth.
- Use anti-allergy covers on bedding, pillows, mattresses.
- Vacuum every day.
- Use a dehumidifier.
- Keep the home as aired as possible.
- Replace carpets with hard flooring.
How to Reduce Pollen Allergens
Grass pollen is one on the greatest triggers for those affected by hay-fever, making it important to mow the lawn when a sufferer is not at home. Check weather forecasts for pollen counts, as this can have a big impact upon hay-fever sufferers. As pollen counts are usually highest late afternoon, try to arrange outdoor activities in the weekends accordingly.The condition is recognised to be worse in built-up areas due to pollution, so it might be worth considering moving to a less busy location, if possible. For children who are greatly affected by pollen allergens, it is sensible to replace lawned areas with either decking or paving.
Goldman (2009) recommends the following ways to reduce pollen triggers: showering children and washing their hair and clothes (after they have been playing outside), giving them wraparound sunglasses (stops pollen getting into the eyes) and growing insect-pollinated plants in the garden. Also, it is best to avoid drying the clothes of children with pollen allergies outside, if possible.
As highlighted above, while it is impossible to prevent children with airborne allergies coming into contact with either pollen or house dust mites altogether, there are simple ways to reduce both. These steps include, avoid high pollen counts, provide wraparound glasses for children, wash bedding at 60 degrees each week, dust regularly and vacuum daily.
Source:
Goldman, V. (2009) Allergies: A Parent's Guide Peterborough: Need 2 Know
Kate Le Page - Kate Henning-Le Page writes about eating disorders, body image and recovery issues. She specializes in anorexia recovery.
Join the Conversation