What’s the deal with allergies in the Lone Star State?
According to a recent study, there is a 20- DAY INCREASE in length of allergy season since 2018 and a 21% INCREASE in pollen concentration in North America since 1990¹.

Well, it turns out that pollens from trees like oak and elm, grasses, and even mold spores can be major trouble-makers for the little dudes. Oh, and let’s not forget about dust mites and pet dander – those tiny critters can also trigger some serious allergy attacks!

Texas and National Trends:

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that the prevalence of allergies in children has been increasing in recent decades, both in Texas and nationwide. Some key statistics include:

• In Texas, 8.2% of children under 18 years old had hay fever or respiratory allergies in 2018, slightly higher than the national average of 7.2% (CDC, 2018).
• Nationwide, the prevalence of food allergies in children increased from 3.4% in 1997-1999 to 5.1% in 2009-2011 (CDC, 2013).
• Skin allergies (such as eczema) affect approximately 13% of children aged 0-17 years in the United States (AAFA, 2021).

But it’s not just Texas. Allergies have been on the rise across the nation, and more kids are dealing with stuff like hay fever, respiratory issues, and even food allergies than ever before.
Now, here’s the deal – allergies can hit kids and teens differently based on their age, gender, and even their background. For instance, younger kids are more likely to have food allergies, while respiratory allergies tend to kick in more as they get older. Children from low-income families and certain racial/ethnic minority groups (e.g., non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic children) may have higher rates of allergies and asthma (CDC, 2019). And boys seem to be more prone to allergies during childhood, but then the tables turn when they become adults. Crazy, right?

So what do I do?
Parents can take several steps to manage their child’s allergies:

1. Identify triggers: Keep a diary. Work with your doctor to determine the specific allergens affecting your child.
2. Reduce exposure: Minimize contact with identified allergens by controlling indoor air quality, using allergen-proof bedding covers, and avoiding certain foods.
3. Medication: Antihistamines, nasal sprays, and other medications can help relieve allergy symptoms when prescribed and used appropriately.
4. Immunotherapy: Before you take allergy shots or sublingual (under-the-tongue) immunotherapy can desensitize the immune system to specific allergens over time, try neti pot and elimination diet.
5. Education: Teach your child to recognize allergy symptoms, avoid triggers, and properly use any prescribed medications or emergency treatments.

And, as always, we are always there when you need us. Call 972-618-3547 if you need an appointment.

The views expressed in this article should not be considered as a substitute for a physician’s advice. Always make sure to seek a doctor or a professional’s advice before proceeding with the home treatment plan.

Source ¹: Anderegg WRL, Abatzoglou JT, Anderegg LDL, Bielory L, Kinney PL, Ziska L. Anthropogenic climate change is worsening North American pollen seasons. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 2021;118(7):e2013284118. doi:10.1073/pnas.2013284118