Children and young babies can have allergic reactions like adults to foods and unseen elements within their environments. According to statistics in the USA, allergies are the most prevalent health complications with approximately 6 million children suffering from food allergies. Further, it has been established that food allergies are most likely to suffer from asthmatic attacks or other allergic conditions.
Causes of Children Allergies
It has not been clearly established why some children suffer from certain allergies while others don’t. But, genetics may play a significant role in children's allergies. Children can have several allergies which can generally be divided into any of the following categories:
Environmental: Can be triggered by things that touch the child’s skin or allergens in the air. They may include:
- Pollen from trees or flowers
- Insect stings or bites
- Dust mites
- Detergents
- Pet dander
- Cigarette smoke
- Strong Cologne
- Car fumes
- Cockroaches
- Mold
Food: Can be triggered by a certain protein in your child’s diet and happens immediately after food consumption. The most common foods are:
- Peanut
- Milk
- Wheat
- Fish
- Eggs
- Tree nuts
- Soy
- Shellfish
Drugs: Can be triggered by certain medications and can happen within a few minutes, hours, or days after consuming the medicine.
Seasonal: Usually happens at specific periods of the year or at certain locations especially during spring or cold seasons. It’s triggered by pollen from trees or flowers within that area. These allergies are also referred to as 'Hay fever.'
What are the most common signs and symptoms of children's allergies?
- Frequent sneezing
- Itchy throat and/or nose
- Stuffy nose
- Itchy and watery eyes
- Coughing
- Troubled breathing
- Tightness on the throat
- Vomiting
- Hives
- Eczema
- Asthmatic symptoms
- Upset stomach
- Lightheadedness
- Loss of consciousness
An acute allergic reaction in children can lead to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition that causes difficulties in breathing, a fall in blood pressure, bluish color on the lips or fingertips, or death
How to diagnose allergies in children
The cause and severity of allergic reaction symptoms in children can vary from one child to another. Sometimes, allergic symptoms in children can be mistaken as upper respiratory infections. Hence, it’s advisable to seek medical guidance to establish whether your child has an allergy. Our pediatricians at American Wellness Center may refer you to our allergy specialist for proper allergy tests and treatment. He/she may perform the following tests:
1. Skin prick test:
A tiny fragment of a particular allergen will be placed under the skin with a needle. The allergist will then observe the reaction of the skin around the 1may try another allergen and if there is still no reaction, your child doesn’t have any allergy. The test is safe for children above six months.
2. Blood test
A blood test can be appropriate for smaller babies.
3. Exclusion diet test
If you suspect your child has food allergies, our doctor may advise you to eliminate a suspected allergen from your child’s meals for a few days or weeks and look out for any changes. However, this method can be complex since specific allergens like milk are found in many baby and children food products.
Treatment for children allergies
It is always recommended to seek a professional medical diagnosis and treatment for allergies. Children's allergy treatment depends on the child’s age, prevailing symptoms, physical well-being, and the severity of the allergic reaction.
The most common allergy treatment is avoiding the triggers, immunotherapy and medications. Drugs to treat seasonal allergies or hay fever include:
- Allergy shots or tablets
- Nasal sprays
- Antihistamines
- Decongestants
- Asthma medications to control the symptoms
However, you should talk with your child’s doctor concerning allergy medications because decongestants should not be given to a child below for years.
There are also other ways to keep away allergens such as:
- Keeping the child indoors during spring season or when pollen count is high
- Keep your children bedroom free from dust by cleaning it often
- If you have an allergic child, try as much to use an AC instead of opening the windows.
- Ensure that there is a humidifier in damp areas around your house and clean them regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
1. What are the signs of an allergic reaction?
The most common signs of an allergic reactions are itchiness, shortness of breath, wheezing, swelling on the throat and mouth, coughing, vomiting and hives.
2. What is the meaning of anaphylaxis?
Anaphylaxis is a chronic allergic reaction with severe symptoms that can lead to death if not given an immediate medical intervention. A child with anaphylaxis should be rushed to an ER for close medical monitoring. Symptoms include a bluish color on the skin, loss of consciousness, low pulse rate and difficulties in breathing.
3. Can my child outgrown allergies?
Allrgies can develop at any age, but most children outgrow allergies by the time they get to 5 years. Also, some children may stop reacting to eggs and milk as they grow as they continue to suffer from food or environmental allergies.
4. What the most common causes of allergies?
There are various substances that can trigger allergic reactions. They include: plant pollen
- Food
- Insect sting
- Mold
- Dust mites
- Pet dander
- Medications
If you suspect that your child may be suffering from allergies, it's not too late to seek a professional intervention from American Wellness Center. You can call us today and let our healthcare providers help you with the necessary treatment and guidance on children's allergies.