Healthy Kids
Summer is nearing an end and once again (finally!), it’s
time for cooler, more appealing weather. But, as you turn off your air
conditioning and open your windows, you may want to stop and consider
your or your children’s allergies.
"As the weather gets cooler, people are not considering that
now
as a prime season for allergens such as ragweed. When you open your
windows and run your fans, that process sucks the pollens out of the
outside air and into the home," says Jay Portnoy, MD, chief, Allergy,
Asthma and Immunology at Children's Mercy Hospitals and Clinics. "These
pollens become house dust and can last up to four to five months in the
house after the season is over, making seasonal allergies, allergies
that last all year long."
Ragweed season lasts into October. With the recent warm dry
weather, the ragweed pollen is more potent this year than in years
past, says Portnoy.
Following is a list of tips for parents and children who are
suffering from ragweed and other seasonal allergies.
- Keep the windows closed while in the car and in the home. This
keeps the pollens from getting in the carpet, and the fabric in your
home or car.
- Avoid rigorous activity if you are outdoors around noon. That is
the most potent time of the day for outdoor allergens, especially
ragweed. The best time for allergy suffers to venture outside is during
the late afternoon.
- Wash pets frequently to remove the pollen they have accumulated on
their fur.
- Vacuum and dust the house frequently. Make sure the vacuum you use
is fitted with a HEPA filter. This filter is completely sealed to
contain all dirt and allergen particles within the machine.
It is also important to do a fall cleaning when the allergy season
is over, to make sure that all allergens are collected, before you lock
up the house for the winter. By doing all of these things, you should
be able to keep your home free of summer and fall allergens, says
Portnoy.
