Sniffle Solutions

The nurse needs to know what type of seasonal allergies your child has, whether or not she’s been skin tested, and if so, what the results were. You should also tell the nurse what kinds of symptoms your daughter gets during allergy season. Is it mainly upper respiratory symptoms like sneezing and a stuffy nose, or does she also get a local skin reaction, such a hives? Do her eyes become red and irritated, or just watery?

You should also tell the nurse what types of medication your child takes for her allergies (such as antihistamines, decongestants and nasal sprays), including the specific name of the drug and how often she takes it. If your child has any side effects from allergy meds, such as drowsiness, the nurse needs to know that too.

Parents should educate their children about seasonal allergy symptoms and tell them that their medication is available in the school nurse’s office if needed. But since kids often aren’t able to differentiate between allergies and cold symptoms, the school nurse will assess your child before giving her the medication. Finally, keep in mind that recess and physical education classes may be held outside, which may affect your child’s allergies.