Allergy season can be tough on your little ones, especially when it starts affecting their breathing. Whether it’s pollen or dust mites causing discomfort, the impact can be hard to ignore. But here’s the good news: with a few simple ENT tips, you can help keep their airways clear and their breathing easy.

In Jupiter, families are already taking proactive steps to tackle allergy season head-on, and you can too. Keep reading to discover 7 ENT tips that can make a real difference for your kids.

1. Keep Allergens Out of the House

The first step to keeping allergy symptoms at bay is to minimize exposure to allergens. Make sure to keep windows closed during high pollen times, which are typically early morning and late afternoon, and consider using air purifiers to clean the air inside your home. Invest in a high-quality HEPA filter, as it can trap tiny particles like pollen and dust.

Dust mites, mold, and pet dander can also trigger allergy flare-ups, so frequent cleaning and vacuuming with a HEPA filter can make a huge difference. Wash bedding regularly in hot water to remove any allergens that may have found their way in. If possible, try to limit the number of stuffed animals and heavy curtains that can collect dust. These simple steps can create a more allergen-free environment for your child to breathe easier.

2. Consider Allergy-Friendly Foods

Did you know that certain foods can help ease allergy symptoms? Adding anti-inflammatory foods to your child’s diet, like fruits rich in vitamin C (think oranges, strawberries, and kiwis) and omega-3-rich foods like salmon, can provide natural relief. Vitamin C helps boost the immune system, and omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation, which can be beneficial during allergy season.

Avoiding foods that are known to trigger allergic reactions (such as nuts, dairy, or certain food additives) can also help reduce overall sensitivity during allergy season. Also, try incorporating local honey into their diet—while not proven, some believe that it might help desensitize kids to local allergens. A healthy, balanced diet can improve your child’s ability to fight off allergens and support their overall well-being.

3. Teach Your Kids to Wash Their Hands and Face Regularly

When kids spend time outside, allergens like pollen can cling to their skin and hair. Teaching them to wash their hands and face when they come inside can help reduce the chances of allergens spreading to their nose and eyes. You can even encourage them to shower before bed to wash off any pollen that might have settled on their skin throughout the day.

This can be especially helpful if they’ve been playing outside for extended periods. For extra protection, consider using a saline spray to rinse out their nasal passages and reduce irritation from pollen or dust. Keeping their skin and hair free from allergens helps lower the risk of triggering sneezing and congestion, so make it part of your family’s routine during allergy season.

4. Talk to Your Doctor About Allergy Medication

In some cases, over-the-counter or prescription allergy medications might be necessary to keep your child comfortable. Antihistamines can help control sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes, while decongestants can clear up nasal congestion and sinus pressure. These medications work by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical released by the body during an allergic reaction.

If your child’s symptoms are persistent or severe, it’s important to talk to your child’s pediatrician or an ear, nose and throat doctor in Jupiter to find the best treatment plan for their specific needs. Allergy shots or immunotherapy may even be considered for children with more severe or long-lasting allergies. Consulting with a professional can help determine the most effective course of action to relieve your child’s symptoms.

5. Keep a Humidifier in Their Room

Dry air can make your child’s allergy symptoms worse, especially during colder months or in air-conditioned environments. Using a humidifier in their room can help keep their airways moist and easier to breathe. It also prevents the nasal passages from drying out, which can make symptoms like congestion worse.

Opt for a cool-mist humidifier to add moisture to the air, but make sure to clean it regularly to prevent mold or bacteria growth. You can also consider using essential oils like eucalyptus or lavender in the humidifier, but be cautious as some oils may cause irritation in sensitive children. A well-maintained humidifier can provide soothing relief at night, allowing your child to sleep better and wake up feeling refreshed.

6. Be Mindful of Allergy Triggers in School

When school is in session, your child might be exposed to different allergens like dust in classrooms or pollen during outdoor activities. Talk to their teachers about allergy-friendly accommodations, such as keeping windows closed or using an air purifier in the classroom. Ask if they can limit outdoor activities during peak pollen times or allow your child to take breaks when symptoms arise.

Make sure your child knows what to do if they start to feel symptoms, such as drinking water or taking a break in a cool, dry area. Additionally, provide your child with any necessary medication, like antihistamines, so they can have quick relief if needed. Keeping open communication with teachers and school staff can ensure that your child’s allergies are managed well during the school day.

Final Thoughts

By following these tips, you’ll help your little ones breathe easy during allergy season and reduce the discomfort that often comes with it. If their symptoms persist or worsen, it’s always a good idea to consult with an ENT professional for personalized advice and treatment options. With the right care and precautions, you can help your kids enjoy allergy season without all the sniffles!