A-a-a-a-a-choo!

According to a national survey by AAAAI (the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology), up to 40% of children suffer from nasal allergies.  The biggest challenge for parents is trying to determine if the runny nose and watery eyes are from a cold or an allergy.  What’s the difference between the two?  The number one difference is the length of time that the child has the symptoms and the presence or lack of a fever.
With a cold, there is usually a low grade fever, body aches and a thick nasal discharge.  These symptoms will generally fade as time goes by.  But with allergies, the nasal discharge (which is usually more watery), itchy nose and watery eyes can last for months.  Typically, there isn’t a fever associated with allergy symptoms either.
Once it’s been determined that it’s not a cold, then a parent needs to look at what may be causing the allergic reaction: is it seasonal such as in the springtime when trees and grasses release pollen into the air?  Is it year round?  Year round reactions can be caused by pet dander, dust mites, mold, etc.
What about allergies to food? Milk, nuts, shellfish and wheat are the most common foods that cause problems in families today.
Other common triggers to be aware of in terms of allergies are: fragrances, medications, latex and cockroaches!
Cockroaches secrete a protein in their droppings that can create a strong reaction in humans.  There are more than 50 species of cockroaches in the United States.  There are five species that may be found in Colorado: American, Brownbanded, Oriental, German and Wood.  Though cockroaches are associated with filth and unsanitary conditions, they have been known to invade the best-kept homes.

Our blog is changing and we will now be posting new information weekly.  Anticipate more information about allergies, great snack recipes for kids and more in the upcoming weeks!

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