Allergies

Allergic reactions occur when the body mistakenly treats a substance as harmful, in other words, a defence reaction to an attack that does not actually exist. There are many different telltale symptoms of an allergy. Eczema, rashes, digestion problems or respiratory difficulties are the most common. Certain hygiene and food rules can help prevent allergies. Parents should pay particular attention to their family’s allergy history.

A healthy environment
The home is a breeding ground for allergens. Dust in the carpet and on furniture and the fur of your child’s favourite animal are the cause of most common allergies. To limit this invasion, air the rooms in your house every day, wipe down rather than dust your furniture and use a vacuum cleaner. Using anti-mite mattress covers and changing the sheets every week can also reduce the spread of dust mites.

The main environmental allergens
Mites and other types of dust
Microscopic and invisible to the naked eye, mites invade our homes, taking refuge in rugs, curtains, mattresses and even soft toys. Dust, however, invades the air and hangs there, where it can be easily inhaled. Allergic reactions are therefore often breathing-related, e.g. chronic rhinitis and asthma with a blocked nose and watery eyes.