5 Ways to Avoid Back To School Asthma and Allergy Flare-Ups

Children across the country are gearing up to head back to school, but millions of them will need to manage asthma and allergies along with homework and sports practice.

This time of year, the mix of pollens and mould spores in the air, coupled with allergens and viruses that build up inside the school, is prime time for asthma and allergy attacks.

Asthma, which can be triggered by allergies and respiratory illnesses, causes
nearly a 50% increase in emergency room visits among children during the
season. It’s also the number one reason why students chronically miss
school.
What should parents do to make sure their kids breathe easier this school
year?

Representatives of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology
suggest the following 5 steps:

1. Schedule a back to school doctor’s appointment 
Go see a doctor or allergist to check that everything is under control. This is
also important to identify certain allergy and asthma triggers.

2. Share your treatment plan
The school staff should have a copy of your child’s treatment plan, which
should include a list of substances that trigger your child’s allergies or
asthma, a list of medications the child takes, and a list of those to contact in
an emergency.

3. Meet with the teachers and coaches
All caregivers who supervise your child during the school day should have a
copy of the treatment plan, and you should meet with them to discuss how
they can help control your child’s symptoms. Signs of irritability and inability
to concentrate or temper tantrums may be signs that your child is having
symptoms of asthma or allergies. Ask school staff to tell you when and
where the symptoms worsen so you can work with the doctor to adjust the
treatment plan accordingly.

4. Discuss how to handle emergencies
With an allergist’s recommendation, children should be permitted to keep
inhaled medication with them at school. Children who are at risk of a life-
threatening allergic reaction also should have an epinephrine kit to prevent
the dangerous reaction that may be caused by allergies to certain foods or
insect stings. Be sure that your child knows, as do school staff, how to use
emergency medications. Complete a permission form that allows school staff
to administer medications if needed.

5. Make sure your child understand the triggers.
Discuss steps to avoid triggers while at school, like sitting far from the
blackboard if chalk dust triggers asthma.

6. Investigate class pets – suggest an air purifier!
If your child is allergic to animal dander, ask that class pets that could trigger
a reaction, such as hamsters or rabbits, be removed. Or alternatively suggest
to the school governing body that they invest in an air purifier for the class.
An air purifier will capture allergens, viruses, bacteria, pollen, mould spores
and pet dander, making it easier for your child to breathe.

For more information about our range of Air Purifiers click here.