In a school setting, there are many opportunities for an allergic reaction to occur. From the cafeteria food to the school supplies to the class pets, allergens can lurk in many places.
Our experts at Pediatric Practitioners of Oklahoma in Claremore, Oklahoma, understand how stressful it can be to send a child back to school, especially if severe allergic reactions are a possibility. Read on for our top tips on how to keep your child safe during the school year.
Before school starts, ask the staff about what happens when a child gets sick. Is there a nurse available to deliver medication in case of an allergic reaction? Are teachers educated on how to give an epinephrine shot in the case of a severe allergic reaction?
If pollen counts are high, you can remind your child to ask their teachers to close the windows so they will be less likely to sneeze, cough, or have a runny nose.
If your child is allergic to commonly used substances in paints or fabrics, make sure you search for allergen-free alternatives before the school year starts.
Class pets that have fur can cause allergic reactions. Birds and reptiles are much safer choices for many children with allergies. Reach out to the staff to discuss the possibility of adopting a bird or a reptile as a class pet, as these animals are less likely to trigger allergic reactions.
The school staff should be informed of the allergies your child suffers from, especially if your child eats food from the school cafeteria.
Making sure your child washes their hands can help keep allergens away from their nose and mouth. Having them use wet wipes can also help.
Don’t wait for an allergic reaction to occur. Instead, talk to the school staff about the severity of your child’s symptoms, and discuss what medications your child needs. This way, the staff can know what to do in the case of an allergic reaction.
Depending on the severity of the reaction, your child may need antihistamines or an epinephrine shot.
Sometimes even traces of food can trigger an allergic reaction. Packing a lunch from home is the best way to ensure that your child is not exposed to allergens in other foods. In addition, teach your child to avoid eating from their friends’ plates, as their food may contain allergens.
If your child is suffering from allergic reactions, testing is the best way to determine what’s triggering their reactions. In addition to testing, our team can help you better understand how allergy medications work and how you can best prevent your child’s exposure to allergens.
To learn more about helping your child deal with allergies, call 918-626-1186 or book an appointment online with Pediatric Practitioners of Oklahoma today.
