If your child’s itchy eyes, runny nose and cough seem to stick around for a while, it might be more than just a cold — it could be a sign that your child has an allergy. While avoiding common household allergens such as dust and pet dander can feel overwhelming, there are simple steps you can take to limit exposure in your home.

Pediatric allergist Suzanne Ngo, MD, shares some of the most common household allergens and tips for navigating allergies with your kids.

What are some of the most common household allergens?

The most common allergens found in houses are:

• Pets: Pet allergens are primarily proteins found in an animal’s saliva, urine and oil glands. These proteins stick to pet dander that can shed and spread those pet allergens.
• Mold: Mold is a type of fungus that grows in damp environments and reproduces by releasing airborne spores that can trigger allergic reactions. It is commonly found in moisture-prone areas such as bathrooms, basements, kitchens and places with water damage or leaks.
• Dust mites: This is different than your basic dust at home. Dust mites are microscopic pests that live in household dust and feed on shed skin cells. Because of the dry climate in Colorado, dust mites aren’t as common here.
• Cockroaches or mice infestations: Their waste and body particles can trigger allergies if there is an infestation in your home.
• Pollen: Pollen can be brought in from outside via shoes, clothing, pets and open windows.

What are the first signs that your child might have an allergy?

Symptoms of allergies in kids could look like:

• Nasal and sinus congestion
• Itchy eyes
• Cough
• Nose or throat irritation
• Skin rashes or hives

The key to determining if your child’s symptoms are allergies instead of just a basic cold is paying attention to timing. Allergy symptoms will be ongoing — these indoor triggers can happen year-round.

If every time you leave for vacation, your child’s symptoms stop, that could be a sign there’s an allergen in your home. If every time you visit your neighbor’s house, your child starts to develop itchy eyes and a rash, but they are fine at home, that could be a sign of an indoor allergen there (such as their cat or dog).

When do allergies develop?

Your child isn’t born with an allergy. They develop an allergy over time after being exposed — usually within the first few years. Pet allergies typically develop in the early years but can develop as early as 1 year old or even as an adult.

What is the first step if I think my child might have an allergy?

Reach out to your child’s pediatrician if you think your child might have an allergy. They can guide you on next steps and might refer you to a pediatric allergist for further testing.

Tips for preventing mold and allergens at home

Through Children’s Colorado’s Just Keep Breathing Program, our team members make hundreds of home visits to families who have a child with high-risk asthma to help them make simple changes at home to lower allergen exposure.

Pediatric pulmonologist Monica Federico, MD, shares tips every family can use at home to reduce their exposure:

• Use a door mat to wipe pollen off your shoes before entering your home.
• Ventilate and clean all rooms, especially basements, bathrooms and kitchens, to keep mold and mildew from growing. Use a HEPA filter in the room where you spend the most time and make sure the filter matches the square footage of the room.
• Look around your home to evaluate any water damage or leaking. Look under the kitchen and bathroom sinks for any signs of dampness.
• Promptly repair and seal leaking roofs or pipes.
• Clean moldy surfaces.
• Don’t put carpet over concrete or damp floors.
• Take the garbage out frequently.
• Keep indoor humidity at around 30% to 50% (that's the natural humidity level in Colorado).
• Pay attention to air quality alerts in your area on hot days. Dr. Federico stresses the importance of having children get outside even on alert days but says focus on the morning hours if possible. You can also explore indoor spaces with central air conditioning, such as libraries and recreation centers.

What if my child is allergic to our family pet?

It is very common for kids to be allergic to their family pets. Your family can take extra measures to limit your child’s exposure or work with your doctor to use medication that keeps your child’s symptoms under control.

Here are some tips from our team to reduce exposure:

• Keep your child’s bedroom pet-free.
• Don’t allow your pet on upholstered or fabric furniture your child would commonly be sitting on, such as the family couch.
• Vacuum your home more frequently.
• Wash your pet more regularly.
• Try an air purifier with a HEPA filter.

Navigating indoor allergens can be overwhelming, but making small changes at home can make a big difference for your child’s health and comfort. If you have concerns about your child’s symptoms, reach out to their pediatrician to explore the next steps.