We found out that my 4 yr old is allergic to pollen, dog, cat and dustmites. We were told we can keep the pets, as long as they aren't allowed in the bedrooms (easy to do with the dog, the poor cat will have to learn to adjust!), and to cover the mattress, box spring and pillow with a protective covering. They gave us a pillow covering and a pamphlet with ways to allergy-proof the bedroom, but we have a lot to do before we're satisfied it's as allergen free as possible. He's on Nasonex and Zyrtec and we go back in 2 weeks. To make things worse, his tonsils are enlarged and surgery might be in the future.

I know many here have allergies or their kids have them. This is my first experience with this and I could use any and all tips, advice and wisdom. TIA

By Lauram on Wednesday, November 26, 2003 - 01:11 pm:

My son #1 takes Zyrtec- but we're not exactly sure what he is allergic to. My guess is it is mold. He gets really bad croup. He also is on Flovent for it. I'm new at all this as well- just started on the meds in Sept

By Sue3 on Thursday, November 27, 2003 - 10:24 pm:

Hello,
My son was just diagnosed with allergies this spring.He is allergic to ,dog dander,dust mites, pollen, and mold.
We have two dogs and we were told the same thing as you,cover box springs, vacuum more often and get a air purifier which we have not done yet(the air purifier).He takes meds every night,advair and nasonex to control his allergies and asthsma.
Are you going to an allergist in 2 weeks?
If so, they are so helpful.
Also we along with the DR.have decided to get allergy shots ,we just started that 3 weeks ago
It is suppose to gradually increase their
resistance to the allergin and eventually
no more medication or not as often is needed.
Its a long process though which really stinks!
Well I wish you luck!
i hope I have been helpful to you

By Trina~moderator on Friday, November 28, 2003 - 12:32 pm:

BTDT My DS has asthma that's triggered by viruses and a cat allergy (we have three). He takes Claritin and Pulmicort daily. He has a HEPA air cleaner in his room, which has made a BIG difference. His bedroom door is always closed so that the air purifier can work properly and to keep the cats out. We also installed an air cleaner on our central heat and air system.

Laura, my DS was prone to croup, or so we thought. It turned out to be undiagnosed asthma. We learned this last year when he had an asthma attack so severe it landed him in the hospital for 3 days. Don't mean to scare you but I wish I had known more about asthma before his attack. He was tested by an allergist so we could pinpoint his triggers. Since putting him on an asthma action plan and taking precautions to avoid his triggers he has consistently been in the green (healthy) zone for a year now. NO more croupy coughs! YEAH!