A variety of things can make asthma or allergy symptoms worse. These are called "triggers." Your doctor can help you figure out what your child's triggers are.

Cockroaches are a common trigger for many kids.

How Do Cockroaches Trigger Symptoms?

Cockroaches have a protein in their shed body parts, saliva (spit), and droppings (poop) that can set off a person's asthma or allergy symptoms.

How Can I Help My Child Deal With Them?

• Have your home professionally exterminated every few months. Between these treatments, use bait traps to catch roaches (not aerosol sprays, which can make some kids' symptoms worse).
• Avoid saving boxes, paper bags, or newspapers in piles around your home.
• Don't leave open food containers or dirty dishes lying around your kitchen.
• Keep counters free of crumbs or spills.
• Keep garbage containers closed.
• Wash recyclables before putting them in the bin.
• Seal any cracks in walls and floors.
• Remove all food and water sources that can attract cockroaches.
• Frequent cleaning of floors (vacuum, mopping, etc.) and countertops will reduce allergen exposure.