Back to school means asthma and allergy flare-ups, experts say

The start of the new school year often
causes more cases of asthma and allergies.

With kids returning to school soon, parents and healthcare providers better be prepared for a spate of dust-induced asthma and rhinitis, according to experts.

In the fall, mold spores begin to increase and air-temperature inversions -- warm air on top of cold -- occur both inside and out. Contaminants build up.

When facility managers fire up the furnaces, the accumulated dust and other pollutants are blown into the classrooms where everyone is exposed to them.

Common airborne contaminants in schools include

• Dirt
• Chalk
• Pollen
• Pesticides
• Chemicals
• Sanitation supplies
• Perfumes
• Small animals and pests

No wonder children’s astma and allergies may flare up. To survive this challenging part of the school year, follow the doctors' asthma and allergy checklist:

1. Find out who staffs the health office and find out how much they know about treating asthma and controlling allergies.
2. Find out if school policy allows students to carry medication. Make sure your child knows how to use the medications.
3. Let the school know how to reach you during the day in case of an emergency.
4. Tour your child's classroom to identify potential allergy and asthma triggers.
5. Work with your child's teacher to develop ways to help your child focus.
6. Keep lines of communication with the school open throughout the year.

For more information on children's allergies and asthma visit: www.AsthmaAllergiesChildren.com.

Air purifiers for allergies and asthma

The AirMedic Series removes
allergens and asthmagens.

AllerAir offers powerful, portable air purifiers for homes and classrooms that remove a wide range of indoor air pollutants, including chemicals, odors, particles, dust and biological contaminants.

They are equipped with a multistage filtration system with activated carbon, HEPA or Super-HEPA, UV (optional) and pre-filters, proven to be the most effective and powerful filtration system in the industry.

The company provides specialized air purifiers for allergies and asthma.

Contact AllerAir for more information and options.