Sleep and Allergies

Some people are simply predisposed to allergies, and that predisposition can start very early in life. Unfortunately, targeting the culprit isn’t always an easy feat, especially when dealing with infants. A fussy baby is a natural occurrence, but there comes a point when you have to begin to rule out allergies. Some people may decide to start with things like mattress toppers right from the start. Anti-microbial mattress toppers, for example, protect against known allergens which can cause allergies that affect sleep patterns.

While parents may be anxious to create a safe, allergen-free, crib, it’s important that mattress toppers properly fit the crib mattress. Mattress toppers for cribs should be specifically made to fit a crib mattress and should fit snugly around the corners. Infants and sleep go hand-in-hand like infants and diapers or infants and baby food. Like all of these things, safety is crucial and all pediatric guidelines for setting up a safe sleeping place need to be followed.

Toddlers and pre-teens may suffer any number of allergies affecting sleep, including allergies to mold, dust mites, cat dander, or even seasonal allergies to pollen or grass. In some cases, tips for sleeping might be something as easy as keeping bedroom windows closed to avoid offending pollen from wafting in. Let’s face it, it’s hard to sleep with allergies. Coughing, wheezing, itchy eyes, asthma attacks, etc, can really put a toll on sleep quality. To help your children get the safe, restful sleep they need, consider their sleep environment. Mattress toppers specifically designed to ward off common allergens may be helpful. Removing carpets and other things that can harbor allergens like stuffed animals is also something you can easily do. Don’t allow the family pet to use the crib or toddler’s bed as a place to snooze. By physically removing known allergens from the child’s room, you’ll be contributing greatly to your child’s good night’s sleep.

Allergen reducing mattress toppers are a great idea, but if your child’s issue is food allergies and sleep, you’re going to have to dig a little deeper to find solutions. Your child’s pediatrician will be able to offer tips for sleeping and may suggest a change in dietary habits. Food allergies, like other allergies in the spectrum, can be hard to define in a person, but keep trying! Your child’s health depends on it.

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