What can I do to reduce allergen exposure outside?

Suzanne Berman, M.D.

If my child has allergies, does this mean he can't ever play outside?

No. It's important for your child to get fresh air and exercise outside, just as much as any child. However, going outside without any precautions can make an allergic child miserable. Here are some tips to help your allergy-prone child get the most out of his or her active time outside:

Minimize outdoor play on days when the pollen count or humidity are high, and on windy days when mold and pollen are blown about.
Take a shower after spending time outdoors. Pollen and mold can accumulate on the skin and hair.
Consider vacations to relatively pollen-free areas, like the beach or seashore.
Be aware of what plans are particularly allergenic.
In the spring and summer, plants which tend to cause allergic reactions include: oak, elm, birch, ash, hickory, poplar, sycamore, maple, cypress, walnut, western red cedar, Timothy grass, Bermuda grass, orchard grass, red top grass, and sweet vernal grass.
In the late summer and fall, plants which tend to cause allergic reactions include: ragweed, sagebrush, pigweed, Russian thistle, and cocklebur.

You can also review our tips for making the inside of your home an allergy-friendly environment.

Last revised 7/20/01

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