There was a time when I didn’t think twice about allergies in my family’s home.
However, that thinking changed quickly when our pediatrician mentioned that our older daughter was suffering from allergies. He suggested that she see an allergy specialist.
I also read more about allergies on my own. Through my research, I learned about a few different types of allergies. While some allergy culprits are found in your home, they aren’t all easily detectable.
Find out more about the five known hidden home allergy issues that might be affecting your kids and learn some simple ways to help keep these allergies under control.
1. Mold
Mold is a fungus found indoors in damp and warm areas, such as the bathroom or basement. To keep mold at bay, you’ll want to fix any leaks and use washable area rugs instead of carpet in these spaces.
In addition, you may use a dehumidifier when necessary. Also, when using central air conditioning in warmer months, make sure to change the air filter regularly.
2. Pet, Animal Hair, and Fur
Many families have pets thanks to children who often beg their parents for a pet. As a result of my kids and their persistent pleading, we have a 2-year-old golden retriever.
Our dog happens to shed her fur regularly, but, thankfully, my girls don’t have an allergy to pet fur. But for people who have family members with allergies, they wouldn’t be able to choose a pet like our dog. However, you can find animals that make great pets, including pets without fur, such as a pet fish.
3. Dust Mites
Earlier, I mentioned that my older daughter visited an allergy specialist. During this visit, we learned that she is allergic specifically to dust mites. Dust mites are usually found in bedding or furniture, and they are among the most common cause of dust allergies in the home.
To help with dust mite allergies in the home, make sure to regularly wash bedding. Protect pillowcases and mattresses from dust mites with special dust mite coverings. Finally, launder stuffed animals often, as they are also prone to collecting dust mites.
4. Tree and Plant Pollen
During the spring, tree or plant pollen can be an allergy culprit. Children with pollen allergies should stay indoors during days with high pollen counts. In addition, parents can take some of the following precautions: improving air quality with air conditioning, keeping windows closed, using an air purifier, and keeping relative humidity in the home below 50 percent.
5. Airborne Sprays
My younger daughter had a mysterious allergic reaction last Christmas that caused a rash to form on her arms and legs. We found out that she was allergic to a chemical spray for artificial Christmas trees to make them smell like real evergreen trees. She was suffering from airborne contact dermatitis, which results when chemical substances from the air settle on exposed skin. When these substances come in contact with the skin, a rash can form. To prevent allergic reactions, avoid using aerosol spray containers and other airborne spray products in your home.
Now that you have learned more about the hidden allergies affecting kids, I hope you can look for the hidden allergy culprits that may be in your home.
What allergies do your kids suffer from?
