Ask the Doctor

Q: How do I get my child’s school to fully understand his allergic reaction to perfume? Many of the teachers at his school wear way too much, and I have tried to discuss this problem with them, with no response. My son continues to miss days that he needs to be in school. Any ideas on how I may handle this problem in another way?

Diane Schuller, M.D.: Many teachers do not realize the adverse impact that exposure to strong odors, irritants, and allergens has upon allergic children. If no immediate, dramatic symptoms such as sneezing, profuse nasal discharge or eye itching, redness or swelling occur, they make the false assumption that no harm has been done. Whether or not an IgE (allergic) mediated reaction to perfume occurs, allergic children are still adversely affected. Strong odors such as perfume or cleaning solutions will further irritate the already inflamed air passages, causing additional troublesome symptoms. This may result in the need for more medication or increased days missed from school; all of which impact on the child’s learning. Effects may be subtle but nonetheless dramatic.

Providing teachers with literature regarding the harmful effects of such exposure should help them realize the need to reduce its use. Share this column with them. If this action fails, ask your child’s physician to write a letter documenting the need to reduce perfume exposure for your child. Finally, if all else fails, consider writing a letter to the principal or school board citing the need to provide a safe environment and equal educational opportunity to all children with disabilities, including children with allergies and asthma. This provision is guaranteed under the Americans with Disabilities Act and constitutes your child’s legal right!

Diane Schuller, M.D., is a pediatric allergist at Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center in Hershey, PA, and a member of AANMA’s Board of Directors and Medical Advisory Board.