Child Allergy Symptoms You Need To Know Plus When To See A Doctor

It is common for children to have allergies, whether it’s from food (that typically doesn’t cause a reaction in most people) or foreign substances entering the body (for example, pollen, bee venom, or pet dander). These substances are called allergens.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT ALLERGIES

• 'I Thought My Son Was Going to Die from an Allergy Attack'
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The immune system is responsible for producing antibodies that protect against bacteria and viruses. When your child has allergies, their immune system identifies the allergen as something harmful, even though it usually isn’t. When your child encounters allergens, it can cause an allergic reaction such as inflaming the skin, sinuses, airways, or digestive system, according to Mayo Clinic.

Allergies: Symptoms

Allergy symptoms also vary from mild to severe. According to Healthline, mild symptoms may happen if your child is exposed to an allergen for the first time. But it can worsen over time if your child repeatedly comes into contact with the allergen.

Common and mild allergy symptoms can include:

• sneezing
• itching
• nasal congestion (also called allergic rhinitis)
• rash or hives
• dry, red, and cracked skin
• scratchy throat
• watery or itchy eyes

Meanwhile, severe allergic reactions can cause these symptoms:

• swollen lips, tongue, eyes, or face
• stomach pain
• chest pain
• nausea
• vomiting
• heart palpitations
• diarrhea
• dizziness (vertigo)
• fear or anxiety
• weakness
• wheezing
• difficulty breathing
• unsconsciousness

Anaphylaxis

Allergies an easily turn fatal for children suffering severe types of allergies. This type of life-threatening allergic reaction is called anaphylaxis, which is a whole-body allergic reaction that can cause your child to go into shock. It can be triggered by a variety of allergens, including food allergies and insect stings.

Symptoms of anaphylaxis include:

• loss of consciousness
• a drop in blood pressure
• skin rash
• lightheadedness
• rapid, weak pulse
• nausea and vomiting

What are the most common allergies?

There are many “triggers” for a child’s allergies. These include:

• airborne allergens (pollen, animal dander, dust mites, and mold)
• food (like peanuts, wheat, soy, seafood, eggs, and milk, among others)
• insect stings
• medication
• latex or other objects you come in contact with that cause skin reactions

Who is more prone to allergies?

Anyone can develop allergies. But according to Mayo Clinic, you might be more likely to develop one if you:

• Are a child
• Have a family history of asthma or allergies
• Have asthma or other allergic conditions

When to see a doctor

Talk to your doctor if your child exhibits symptoms that you think are caused by an allergy. He may want to order tests to determine what’s causing the allergy, including:

• skin tests
• blood tests
• challenge or elimination-type tests

Anaphylaxis must also be dealt with right away. Seek emergency help immediately or if you have epinephrine auto injectors such as EpiPens, which are injections prescribed for anaphylactic emergencies, give your child a shot as soon as you can.

According to Mayo Clinic, it is advisable to have your child checked even if their symptoms improve after an epinephrine injection. If it is your child’s first time to suffer a severe allergic reaction or anaphylaxis, proper evaluation and diagnosis is needed. Long-term management of anaphylaxis is complicated so a doctor who specializes in allergies and immunology should be consulted.

How can allergies be treated?

Your child’s pediatrician can give allergy medicine depending on the allergy type and the symptoms. Usually, over-the-counter antihistamines, like Benadryl (diphenhydramine), can be prescribed to address mild allergic reaction.

How long do allergy symptoms last?

There are many types of allergies. Some occur in particular seasons, called seasonal allergies while others occur year-round.

According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, seasonal allergies occur at the same time every year. It can last as long as the allergen is in the air (around two to three weeks per allergen).

Can allergies be prevented?

It will depend on the type of allergy that your child has. Some of the measures you can take are:

1. Avoid known triggers.

If your child suffers from food allergies, be careful when handling his food, especially when dining out. Inform their school, friends, and their friends’ parents of his allergies, in case they are attending events and you are not around.

If your child is allergic to pollen, stay indoors with the windows and doors closed when pollen is high. If they are allergic to dust mites, clean and vacuum the home, as well as wash his beddings often, if you can. Air purifiers might also provide relief.

2. Take note of his symptoms.

Keep track of your child’s activities and what he eats, including when symptoms occur, when it worsens, and what gives him relief. This will help you and your doctor identify triggers.

3. Let him wear a medical ID dogtag necklace with allergen information.

Include medication he will need to be given in case of an emergency and your child is unable to communicate. Put the names of his doctors and emergency contact details, including yours.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT ALLERGIES

• 'I Thought My Son Was Going to Die from an Allergy Attack'
• Check Your Symptoms Here: Is It COVID-19, Flu, Colds, or Allergies?

What are the types of allergies and how can you treat each one? Click here for more.

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