Battling Pollen Allergies: A Parent's Guide for a Breath of Fresh Air
Welcome Dr. Kara Wada!
We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Kara Wada to the BFA Blog! Dr. Kara Wada is a board-certified adult and pediatric allergy, immunology, and lifestyle medicine physician, as well as a Sjogren's patient and certified life coach. As a nationally recognized expert in her field, Kara is a TEDx speaker, Dr. Midwest America, and has been featured on NPR, US News and World reports, and more. Dr. Kara Wada and her husband, Akira (her med school sweetheart), became part of the BFA community in 2016, entrusting us with the care of all three of their children over the years. Kara’s mission is to assist families struggling with allergies and autoimmunity in rediscovering balance through simple, sustainable, and science-supported systems, fostering immune confidence. Today, Kara graciously shares her expertise with her fellow BFA parents!
As parents, our priority is ensuring the well-being and comfort of our little ones, especially during the challenging pollen allergy season. With studies indicating that allergies may affect 50% of the population by 2050, and air pollution contributing to making pollen more "aggressive," it's crucial to take proactive steps to protect our families.
Here are some strategies you can implement both inside
and outside your home to help ease the sneezes and sniffles:
Inside the Home
1. Keep Windows Closed: Prevent pollen from entering by keeping windows shut, especially during high pollen counts.
2. Air Filters and Purifiers: Invest in a good air purifier with a HEPA filter to capture pollen and other allergens.
3. Skip Air Fresheners: Chemicals in air fresheners can irritate sensitive airways and affect the delicate balance of hormones in the body. Opt for natural fragrances or, better yet, fresh, clean air (especially when pollen counts are down right after a rain shower).
4. Weekly Vacuuming: Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to catch pollen and allergens in carpets and upholstery.
5. Shoe-Free Zone: Encourage taking off shoes at the door to avoid tracking pollen (and other pollutants) inside.
6. Regular Handwashing: Wash hands frequently to remove pollen after outdoor play in addition to germs and dirt.
7. Shower Rinses: A quick shower after being outside can rinse off pollen from skin and hair, reducing exposure and can help us fall asleep easier too!
8. Saline Sprays and Rinses: They can help clear nasal passages of pollen and other irritants. Spray canisters can be easier for parents of infants and toddlers.
9. Start Medications Early: Begin allergy medications before the season starts and use them consistently and with proper technique under the direction of your physician.
Outside the Home
1. Finding a better route: Allegra Airways is an innovated web-based tool that helps you find a route with less pollen and pollution for your next run or bike ride.
2. Masking, again: During the pandemic, many allergy suffers realized that wearing a mask during yard work can significantly decrease symptoms.
3. Consider Immunotherapy: For severe allergies, talk to your allergist about immunotherapy, which can desensitize the immune system to allergens over time. In addition to weekly allergy shots, newer options including under-the-tongue drops and ultrasound guided intralymphatic immunotherapy are also increasingly available.
The Impact of Air Pollution
Air pollution not only exacerbates allergies by making pollen more potent but also contributes to a host of respiratory issues. By reducing exposure to both pollen and pollutants, we can protect our children's health and ensure they enjoy the outdoors safely.
In the face of rising allergy rates, being informed and prepared is our best defense. By adopting these strategies, we can help our children breathe easier and enjoy a happier, healthier season, free from the discomfort of pollen allergies. Remember, it's about creating a safe and comfortable environment for our little ones, allowing them to thrive inside and outside the home.
-Kara Wada, MD
Assistant Clinical Professor
Allergy/Immunology
Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center
To learn more about harnessing immune system healing through our habits follow @drkarawada on YouTube or visit drkarawada.com
