Relieving your child's spring allergies

(ARA) - Spring allergy season is in full bloom across the country, and some say it's the worst in years. For the 40 percent of American children with allergies, both outdoor and indoor triggers can spark an allergy attack during this time of year.

The culprits include indoor allergens like dust in classrooms and mold in the locker room, as well as outdoor allergens like grass and tree pollen covering athletic fields and playgrounds, which can collect on clothing and hair.

"Record high pollen counts in some areas are taking a toll on children who suffer from allergies. If your kid suffers from allergies at school or play, a proper allergy treatment regimen can help," says pediatric allergist Dr. Pamela Georgeson. "I recommend Children's Claritin because it provides powerful relief from your child's worst indoor and outdoor allergy symptoms without making them drowsy or jittery. And it's the No. 1 pediatrician-recommended non-drowsy OTC allergy brand."

So what else can you do to relieve your child's allergy symptoms and help prevent them from flaring up this season? Experts offer the following allergy tips:

Identify the specific allergens that trigger your child's symptoms so he or she will be able to help limit contact with them.

Tell your child's teachers, school nurse, coaches and caretakers about his or her allergies, triggers and medications.

Remind your child to wash his or her hands frequently to avoid spreading allergy-causing substances such as dust, pollen and pet dander.

Help manage your child's home environment by taking steps such as keeping windows closed, cleaning air filters regularly, washing bedding often and using a dehumidifier.

Have your child shower and change clothes after playing outdoors since allergens can collect on hair, skin and clothes.

Treat allergy symptoms with a non-drowsy antihistamine, such as Children's Claritin, that will last throughout the day.

Allergy education goes right alongside treatment of those pesky symptoms. Kids are inquisitive by nature, and it's important to explain what allergies are, how you get them and what you can do to help manage them. For tools to help your kids better understand what causes their allergies, visit the new Claritin Facebook page at www.facebook.com/claritin. The page also features exclusive coupons and content.

Courtesy of ARAcontent