Understanding Allergies in Children – Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Mother helping her son blow his nose

Allergies are becoming increasingly common in children, affecting their daily lives, nutrition, and overall well-being. Whether it’s food allergies, environmental triggers, or seasonal allergies, identifying and managing allergic reactions early is crucial to keeping your child safe and comfortable.

In this blog, we will explore what causes allergies, how to recognize the symptoms, and what parents can do to prevent and manage allergic reactions in children.

1. What Causes Allergies in Children?

An allergy occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies a harmless substance (allergen) as a threat and reacts against it. This immune response releases chemicals like histamines, leading to symptoms such as itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

Common Allergens

Allergens are classified into different types based on their sources:

✅ Food Allergies: Common culprits include cow’s milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, soy, and wheat. ✅ Environmental Allergies: Dust mites, pet dander, pollen, mold, and insect stings. ✅ Medication Allergies: Reactions to antibiotics (e.g., penicillin), pain relievers, and vaccines. ✅ Contact Allergies: Skin reactions from latex, certain fabrics, or personal care products.

Some children inherit allergies genetically, meaning if one or both parents have allergies, their child is more likely to develop them.

2. Common Symptoms of Allergies in Children

Allergic reactions can range from mild to severe, depending on the child’s sensitivity to the allergen.

Mild Symptoms

🔹 Sneezing and runny nose🔹 Itchy or watery eyes🔹 Skin rashes (such as eczema or hives)🔹 Upset stomach or mild digestive discomfort

Moderate to Severe Symptoms

⚠️ Persistent coughing or wheezing ⚠️ Swelling of the lips, tongue, or face ⚠️ Vomiting or diarrhea ⚠️ Shortness of breath ⚠️ Anaphylaxis (a life-threatening reaction requiring emergency care)

3. Diagnosis and Allergy Testing

If your child frequently experiences allergic reactions, consulting a paediatrician is essential. Allergy testing can help determine the specific allergens triggering their symptoms.

Types of Allergy Tests

✅ Skin Prick Test – A small amount of allergen is placed on the skin to observe a reaction. ✅ Blood Test (IgE Test) – Measures the level of allergy-related antibodies in the blood. ✅ Elimination Diet – Used to identify food allergies by removing suspected foods from the diet and reintroducing them one by one.

4. Managing and Treating Allergies in Children

1. Avoiding Triggers: The best way to manage allergies is to reduce exposure to known allergens. This may include dietary modifications, keeping pets out of bedrooms, or using allergen-proof bedding.

2. Medications for Allergy Relief: Depending on the severity of symptoms, a doctor may recommend: ✔️ Antihistamines (for mild reactions like sneezing or itching) ✔️ Nasal sprays (to manage congestion) ✔️ EpiPens (for severe reactions such as anaphylaxis)

3. Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots): For children with persistent allergies, immunotherapy can help build tolerance over time.

5. Preventing Allergies in Children

✔️ Breastfeeding: Studies suggest that exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months may lower the risk of food allergies. ✔️ Introducing Allergenic Foods Early: New research indicates that introducing common allergens (e.g., peanut butter) in small amounts between 4-6 months may help reduce the risk of developing allergies. ✔️ Maintaining a Clean Environment: Dust-proofing the home, washing hands frequently, and using hypoallergenic bedding can minimize environmental allergies.

Final Thoughts

Allergies in children can be challenging, but with proper diagnosis and management, they can lead happy and healthy lives. If your child shows any signs of allergies, consult a paediatrician for the best course of action. Early detection and prevention are key to keeping them safe! To ensure you detect any allergies and treat them efficiently, contact Dr. Candice for a consultation and diagnosis.