There’s nothing quite as pleasant and inspiring as Orange County in the springtime. But the deluge of red noses, itchy eyes, and constant sneezes that come with it? Not so much. Seasonal allergy symptoms in kids can be a real downer for our little ones, who are ready to get outside and enjoy the sunshine. So let’s talk about the top allergens affecting Orange County, and what you can do to minimize each one. 

Pollen

We love the constant spring blooms and budding flowers all around us. But set deep within those colorful jewels are tiny particles of pollen, which are quick to take to the skies — and if your child has pollen sensitivity — immediately lead to itchy throats, watery eyes, runny noses, skin irritation and even asthma attacks. 

What you can do: 

• Have your little ones go outside later in the afternoon, when pollen counts are lower
• Keep windows and doors closed to the outside during midday
• Change their clothes immediately when they come back inside your house

Dust mites

Dust mites are tiny, microscopic little critters that exist in our homes year-round, but their numbers (and our kiddos’ allergies) rise dramatically during the warmer months. They are often found among bedding, furniture and carpets. If your kid has a dust mite allergy, you can look forward to the joys of sneezing, runny noses, itchy eyes and even asthma flare ups. 

What you can do: 

• Wash sheets and blankets as often as you can, in very hot water
• Try using a dehumidifier to lower your home’s humidity to less than 50%
• Consider purchasing a HEPA air purifier, and place it in your most used room(s)

Mold

Spring is the perfect season…for mold, that is. Combine the end of our rainy season with the rising of temperatures, and you’ve got the ideal condition for mold spores to develop. You can find them hanging out in dank places like under sinks, near showers, or in the corners of your garage. Symptoms of mold allergies include: sneezy, runny or stuffy nose; itchy or watery eyes; and coughing or shortness of breath.  

What you can do: 

• Keep your indoor humidity below 50%, with an indoor dehumidifier
• Keep windows open and fans circulating in bathrooms
• Wear gloves when gardening in damp places

Pet dander

Last but not least, let’s talk about the little presents left by our furry friends — pet dander. Made up of tiny flecks of shedded skin, this miniscule allergen can cause rashes, sneezes, and runny noses throughout the spring season. 

What you can do: 

• Keep pets off of furniture as much as you can
• Frequently shampoo home carpets
• Reduce kids’ exposure to the pet during the springtime
• Clean your children’s clothing more often 

We hope you’re able to navigate the spring allergy season in Orange County as smoothly as possible. But if you hit a couple bumps in the road (or on the arms, cheeks or forehead for that matter) feel free to make an appointment with us, we’ll be happy to diagnose any allergy symptoms your kid may be experiencing, and/or refer you to a specialist. 

 

From all of us at Ocean Pediatrics, happy spring!