Caring for Your Child’s Allergies During the School Year

As our kids go back to school, they'll focus on new friends, homework, after-school activities, and projects. And if your child has allergies or asthma, you’ll have to add one more thing to that list — keeping them safe. Amidst the chaos, you can't forget to send your kids off fully prepared to handle their symptoms throughout the day. Here are a few tips to ensure your children spend their school days safe and sound.

Common School Allergens

Below are some common back-to-school problems when it comes to allergies and asthma:

• Hay Fever - Hay fever can lead to congestion, stuffiness, sore throat, headache, sinus problems, fatigue, poor school performance, and school absences! This condition is commonly caused by both environmental allergens such as ragweed and allergens found in classrooms such as mold.
• Food Allergies - If your child has food allergies, sending them off to school where they can trade food or buy school lunches can be a recipe for problems. Food allergies can cause severe breathing difficulties, swelling, hives, shock, and even life-threatening reactions.
• Asthma - Asthma can be problematic for kids who want to enjoy and learn at school, as it can cause coughing, wheezing, exercise limitation, and nighttime coughing. Managing symptoms can help keep kids in school and avoid absences!

Medication and Medical Forms

A visit to the doctor for a check-up should be done ahead of time so that any prescriptions your child needs can get filled. You should have at least one spare inhaler in the class or the nurse's office just in case, as well as eye drops and an EpiPen if necessary.

Complete any medical forms and update emergency contact information before the first day of school— especially if gym class and recess are on the first day.

Inform and Instruct

Just telling a teacher isn't enough to keep the school informed of your little one’s medical condition. With so many kids to care for, it’s easy for a teacher to forget throughout the year. However, forgetting about a food allergy could be a tragic mistake for your little one.

Make sure the principal, nurse, and other teachers know your child's triggers and what to do in the case of an asthma attack. Write up an asthma action plan and distribute it to those who may care for your child, and touch base regularly to confirm that your child’s asthma is being properly managed.

Preparing Your Kids

Set your child up to manage their allergies while at school by reminding them to avoid sharing food with others, as well as showing them how to use their medication should they need it.

In the event your child has a substitute teacher, it’s important that they also understand their condition, what their triggers are, and what to do in the event of an asthma attack. With proper preparation, you can give your child the best chance to focus on learning and having fun.

Pediatric Allergy and Asthma Appointments

Ready to discuss your child’s allergies and asthma with our board-certified doctors? Contact us at Center for Allergy and Asthma of Georgia today at (770) 459-0620 to book your appointment to start the school year on the right foot.