As I cover my toddler’s mouth for the umpteenth time that day, I can feel the eyes of others on us. We’re in a waiting room, and her persistent cough echoes around us. I quickly pull out her sippy cup and announce, “She’s not sick, it’s just allergies!”
After a decade of parenting, I should be used to the sideways glances and hushed tones during allergy season. The expressions of those nearby are loud and clear: Why are your children out in public? Don’t get us sick!
I completely understand their concern. There’s nothing worse than seeing sick kids in public places, especially during cold and flu season. But let’s clear the air—because allergies are not contagious.
Everywhere we go, I feel this overwhelming wave of mommy guilt. I’m compelled to assure everyone that my kids aren’t spreading germs. I don’t want to come across as an indifferent parent, so I find myself repeating that it’s just allergies. Yet, truthfully, there’s no “just” about it.
This allergy season has been particularly ruthless. Our lovely screened-in porch is a breeding ground for yellow pollen, and no matter how often we clean, it reappears in mere moments.
Like many families grappling with allergies, we follow our doctor’s instructions to the letter. The list is extensive and often feels futile: Stay indoors, keep windows shut, change clothes after outdoor play, have rescue inhalers at the ready, and remove shoes when entering the house.
Despite adhering to all this guidance, allergies and asthma continue to be relentless foes. We’ve tried every medication, eye drop, and nasal spray available, but none provide total relief. So we carry around a mountain of tissues and water bottles, while the nebulizer hums through the night to help with asthma.
Strangers often offer unsolicited advice after I clarify that my child is not sick. And let me tell you, some of it is downright amusing. Have I considered diffusing an essential oil blend? Or perhaps a daily dose of local honey? Maybe acupuncture?
Not all advice is well-intentioned. Some folks have something to sell—a magic gummy for just $59.99 a month or an organic anti-allergy oil for $29.99 that requires constant replenishment. No thanks, I’ve been around the block enough times to know there’s no quick fix for allergies.
Families with allergy-prone kids often struggle to find the right balance between enjoying the outdoors and avoiding exacerbation of symptoms. Staying cooped up inside can lead to restless, bouncing-off-the-walls kiddos. Allergy season feels like a never-ending cycle, hitting us not just once but twice a year—from March to June and then again from September until the first hard freeze.
With the beauty of blooming flowers comes the curse of itchy eyes, runny noses, and persistent coughs. For two of my four kids, this means potential asthma flare-ups. In fact, we barely made it past the New Year before our first trip to the ER for asthma—this time with a hefty bill of $1,000.
This year, it seems allergies and asthma have decided to ignore the off-season, and climate change is partly to blame. I was shocked to find out that global warming is a health issue, particularly affecting those with allergies and asthma. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America notes that climate change increases pollen counts and air pollution, making life harder for those already suffering.
So before you judge this mom for her “sick” child, perhaps consider looking at the bigger picture of what’s happening with our environment and what our elected officials are—or aren’t—doing about it.
The cost of allergy and asthma medications can also be overwhelming. A rescue inhaler can run about $45-$80 each. Many families are forced to choose between necessary medications and other expenses, which can lead to emergency situations.
Allergies, asthma, and eczema may run in families, but many environmental factors contribute to these conditions. Given the many variables at play, the judgment that our kids are simply “sick” isn’t helpful.
In parenting, it’s essential to support one another rather than question choices or make assumptions about another’s situation. I’ll continue to cover my kids’ sneezes and coughs, but I know that no matter how many times I insist it’s “just” allergies, skepticism will remain. That’s fine; I’m used to it. But could you kindly pass me the tissue box?
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Summary:
Allergy season can be a challenging time for families, especially when it comes to managing symptoms and the stigma attached to coughing children. While many people may jump to conclusions, it’s crucial to remember that allergies are not contagious. The impact of climate change on allergies adds another layer of complexity, making it essential to support one another in the parenting journey rather than judge.
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