Allergies

An estimated 35-40 million Americans (15-20 percent of the population) suffer from some type of allergy, and in most people, these allergies first appear during infancy or childhood. It is not surprising then that allergic disorders rank first among children's chronic diseases.

Any child may acquire allergy, but children from families with a history of allergy are more likely to become allergic. Children may inherit the tendency to become allergic from parents or even grandparents, but only some of them will develop active allergic disease.

If your child or student is prone to allergic reactions, what can you do? Families, teachers and even children themselves can delay or reduce the occurrence of allergies through education, prevention and implementing some environmental changes.

Potential School Allergens
The common allergens to be aware of in the school environment are very similar to the ones found at home.

  • animals
  • carpet
  • chalk dust
  • dust
  • foods
  • molds, mildew
  • paint fumes
  • perfume
  • pollen
  • scented markers, stickers

Common Symptoms
The child may suffer from a wide range of symptoms. The teacher should notate and report to the parents any noticeable changes in the child's symptoms or behavior.

  • abdominal cramps
  • aches and pains
  • chronic cough
  • constant runny nose
  • dark circles under eyes
  • diarrhea
  • disruptive behavior
  • excessive throat clearing
  • eczema
  • headaches
  • irritability
  • itchiness
  • puffy eyes
  • skin rashes
  • sleepiness or drowsiness
  • sniffling
  • varied attention span
  • vomiting

Steps for Parents
Parents have responsibilities in helping their child have a safe school experience.

  • Educate your child about his/her allergy.
  • Teach your child the importance of avoiding allergens.
  • Discuss possible peer pressure.
  • Provide a medical alert bracelet or necklace.

Steps for Teachers

  • Teachers can help ease the parents' minds by:
  • Meeting with them to discuss fully the extent of the allergies.
  • Keeping them informed of any classroom activities that may include possible allergens.
  • Notating and informing them of any changes in the child's symptoms.
  • Keeping the line of communication open with the child, so the child will feel comfortable coming to you if a reaction occurs.
  • Marking the records clearly to alert substitute teachers. More...

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