Allergies caused by cuddly animals
An early determination of whether a child is sensitized to inhaled allergens such as pollen, mold or dust mites, serves as an important prognostic factor. Unfortunately, the diagnosis of small children is quite difficult to perform. Scientists from Belgium found that stuffed animals have an influence on the development of allergies in children.
Testing to identify allergies
A Belgian team of scientists tried, through a study of infants aged 0 to 2 years, to determine whether the allergies of children are based on a relation to environmental influences, or based on whether one has a family history of allergies. For this purpose, 824 infants who were previously tests with skin tests, inhaled allergens, and foods in an asthma clinic, were examined by the medical profession.
Stuffed animals make for allergies
It was determined that 40% of young children could be allergic. 28% responded to the respiratory allergens such as house dust, pollen and molds. For most young children dust mite allergens were the worst.
What the scientists also discovered is astonishing
Among children who slept with stuffed animals in bed, allergies were much more pronounced than in children who took no soft animals to bed. Factors such as gender, residence in a nursery, or eczema did not matter in the development of allergy, according to the doctors.
Sacrifice not necessary
Children love their stuffed animals, and they give them security. To take them away does not make sense. To make sure a stuffed animal does not lead to allergies, one should purchase a stuffed animal free of pollutants. Some manufacturers have already attempted to make them free of chemicals and other irritating substances. As a further preventive measure, only one stuffed animal should be taken to bed. It is also important for allergy prevention, to remember to wash soft toys regularly.
Author: Silvia K. Müller, CSN – Chemical Sensitivity Network
Literature:
Image de Erling G, Mathot M, Agustsson S, Tuerlinckx D, Jamart J, Bodart E. Early skin sensitization to aero-allergens, Clin Exp Allergy. 2008 Apr; 38 (4) :643-8.
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