Research shows an increase in the number of children being
diagnosed with allergies
each year.
A noticeable rise began in the 1960's and '70's, although it is unclear whether the increase is due to improved diagnostic techniques and medical health coverage or more children experiencing allergic reactions to environmental allergens.
Ironically, some studies suggest that kids who live in less-than-perfectly-clean households may have less chance of developing allergies than those who are raised in pristine environments.
This may be due to the fact that exposure to a little bit of dirt or dust can help to stimulate an immune response that protects some children from a full-blown allergic response.
To help protect your kids from having a strong response to
common allergens, here are a few tips to keep in mind. Although
each person and home is different, some experts believe this
type of response can reduce the likelihood that your child will
react to household allergens like these.
Avoid overusing antibacterial soap and harsh household
cleaning products. Too much exposure to antibacterial cleaners
can lead to the mutation of germs that evade the destructive
power of these agents. Thus, new and more potent allergens can
develop to threaten your children's health.
Household cleaners may have the same effect on bacteria that hides in many areas throughout your home. In addition, the fumes of some products also may trigger an allergic response, further negating the value of such products.
Consider keeping a pet. Letting your kids have a cat or dog around the house can help them get used to pet dander
that is
often the culprit behind some types of childhood allergies.
Combing and washing their pet lets them get used to this type of allergen before they encounter it further down the line and run
into problems. However, don't use a lot of commercial flea or
grooming products on your pet, as these can incite allergic
responses probably worse than those brought on by animals.
Don't separate kids from dust. Let them sweep and clean their own rooms. Contact with dust and dust mites
could help to
build up an immune response that will protect kids for years to
come.
While you don't want them covered in dust or constantly
playing in dirt, a little bit of contact that is properly
supervised by parents may actually be good for some kids.
There are no guarantees with allergies, of course. Despite a
parent's best efforts to protect their child from allergies by
either exposing them early in life to typical allergens or
making the environment as clean and safe as possible, a child
may still develop a runny nose, reactionary sneezes, or itchy
eyes in response to something in their environment that may be
inciting a response.
If your child shows symptoms like these, or others, tell your doctor right away to see if there is something that he or she can do to help your child manage them. Allergic symptoms that are left untreated may eventually develop into asthma.
About the author: Charles Kassotis
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