Back to school time is here and while most parents focus on school supplies and curriculum, for parents who have children with allergies or asthma there can be more to consider.
“The start of a new school year is exciting for some, but for parents of children with allergies and asthma, their thoughts are probably on keeping their child free from triggers that can cause allergic reactions,” said allergist Dr. Kathleen May, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI).
“Allergies and asthma can significantly impact a child’s well-being and academic performance, but with proper preparation and management, they can thrive in the school environment,” May said in an ACAAI news release..
According to a report by the Associated Press, Black children are more likely to have asthma than kids of any other race in America. This is mainly because Black kids are more likely to live near polluted areas. In addition, because of racist housing laws in the nation’s past and present, Black children are more likely to live in rental housing that is plagued with mold and other triggers. To make matters worse, asthma is often more severe and less likely to be controlled, because of poor medical care and mistrust of doctors within the Black community.
According to the CDC, around 4 million children in the U.S. have asthma. The percentage of Black children with asthma is far higher than white kids; more than 12% of Black kids nationwide suffer from the disease, compared with 5.5% of white children. The center says more Black children also die at a much higher rate. Meanwhile, NIH reports there exist racial disparities in allergic disease. African American children suffer disproportionately from allergies when compared to white individuals.
However, experts have some management tips for parents. ACAAI is providing four tips to help get your child off to a smart start to the school year.
Identify allergy triggers: Find out what’s causing your child’s allergic symptoms, such as pollen, mold, dust mites, pet dander or certain foods. Work with your child’s allergist to make sure you have the right treatments in place, including getting the proper prescriptions for their weight and age.
Share your action plan: Your child’s management plan should outline symptoms, medications, emergency contacts and what to do in the event of flare-ups. Be sure the school nurse, teachers and other staff are familiar with the plan and are prepared to respond effectively in case of an emergency. Try to meet with school staff before classes begin to talk about the plan.
Make lunchtime safe: Your child may be able to easily identify their own food allergies and tell others what they can and can’t eat. Make sure they know they shouldn’t eat food brought by their friends. If your child is eating cafeteria food, make sure staffers know about your child’s food allergies to avoid cross-contamination during mealtimes. Encourage your school to label food options so your child can choose wisely. Make sure your child’s epinephrine auto injector, and a spare, are available if needed.
Keep kids active: Exercise and active play is essential to kids’ well-being. Make sure your child who has asthma or reacts to outdoor allergens has taken allergy medicine before leaving for school and that they’re carrying any needed relief inhalers. Consider seeking indoor opportunities for them to participate in if pollen counts are high or air quality is bad. Alert coaches about your child’s asthma, so they can also be prepared for a flare-up.
