Now that school is in session and the ragweed is in full bloom, the most common exercise a lot of us have is wiping our child's nose. Added to the pollen problem is a greater risk of infection from school exposure. This combination leads to many doctor visits over the next several months and we hope we can help you avoid some of the problems that are simple to overcome.

     Ragweed season will continue until mid-October. After the first hard frost, the pollen drops dramatically, but then the molds take over. Many children with seasonal allergy problems improve tremendously by the first of November, and no longer need their daily antihistamines (Claritin, Zyrtec, or Allegra). As the holidays approach, a different type of exposure becomes a major factor in our children's health. We tend to burn scented candles throughout our homes, burn fires in the fireplace and stoves, and place live Christmas trees in our family rooms. Some children will tolerate these added items without the slightest problem, but a large number of children will manifest sneezing, itchy eyes, persistent coughing, and even wheezing secondary to this exposure.

     The best way to manage this problem is prevention. Refrain from burning wood in the fireplace and using kerosene heaters in the house. Limit the burning of scented candles and the use of potpourri in open containers. Artificial trees are highly recommended to prevent a major source of respiratory ailments during the holiday season. If these things can not be avoided then we recommend a HEPA air cleaner in the rooms with the highest risks of these irritants.

     Medications can be prescribed from the office if your child continues to suffer from persistent coughing or runny nose. If these symptoms are left unattended, serious complications can arise such as severe sinus infections and pneumonia, so we encourage you to take heed to these suggestions.