Any child can develop allergies, and it is more likely to develop if the child comes from a family with history of allergy. As parents and caregivers, knowing how to monitor and effectively handle allergy attacks in children will give you peace of mind. Find out more information about allergy in kids—how it develops, its signs and symptoms, as well as prevention and management tips to help you stay prepared.
In recent years, diseases like allergic rhinitis, skin allergy, and sinusitis have become commonplace, even in children. In the last 50 years alone, there has been an increase in the prevalence of allergy-related conditions worldwide. As children are not safe from developing allergies, what can you do as a guardian? The first and most important step is to be informed.
What is an allergy
An allergy is an immune system response to certain substances or irritants (allergens). Normally, a person develops antibodies to protect himself from viruses or bacteria. However, for people with allergies, the immune system sees harm even with mild substances like dust or food. Once the body comes into contact with the allergen, it starts developing antibodies and releases histamines, resulting to an allergic reaction.
Allergies run in families, but can also develop suddenly in children and adults.
Allergy in children
Symptoms
Manifestation of symptoms vary in children. Severity also ranges from mild to severe.
| Skin-related | Respiratory-related | Others |
|---|---|---|
| Itchy skin | Stuffed or clogged nose | Swelling of the tongue, face, or other body part |
| Skin swelling | Sneezing | Dizziness |
| Red and/or scaly skin | Coughing/Wheezing | Nausea |
| Hives or rashes/bumps | Shortness of breath | Vomiting |
| Eczema | Water eyes | Tingling sensation in the mouth |
| Feeling of pressure in the face | Upset stomach | |
| Bring your child to the nearest emergency room in case of anaphylaxis | ||
| Anaphylaxis is a condition where breathing is compromised. This happens when the airway swells and your child is having a difficult time breathing, which can lead to a drop in blood pressure. | ||
Diagnosis
If your child presents any of the symptoms acutely or persistently, it may be a sign of allergy. No matter what age your child is, it is best to consult a physician to conduct tests and find a conclusive diagnosis. A doctor specializing in allergies is called an allergist. He/she may prescribe a skin test or blood test for your child.
What can you do
Prevention
Avoiding your child’s triggers or known allergens is an effective way to prevent allergy attacks from happening. The list below shows common triggers and how you can avoid them:
| Allergen | How to avoid |
|---|---|
| Food products (peanut, egg, chicken, seafood) | Avoid using the ingredients your child is allergic to. Check the ingredient list in store-bought food to be sure about what you are serving. |
| Pollen | Avoid playing outdoors when pollen count is high, or ask your child to wear a mask. |
| Dust or dust mites | Regularly clean your home especially in areas where your child frequents. Wash beddings and clothes often. |
| Animal fur or dander | If you have a pet at home, limit your child’s exposure. Clean often and regularly. |
| Insect bites | If in an area with high insect count, cover up your child. Ask them to wear long-sleeved clothes and/or pants. |
| Cigarette smoke, strong perfumes, chemicals | Do not expose your child to cigarette smoke. When choosing household cleansers, detergent, or hygiene products, also check the ingredient list for additives and chemical substances. |
Treatment
There is no cure for allergies, but symptoms may be controlled or managed. Your child may outgrow his/her allergy, but it is also possible for a resurgence to occur in adulthood.
Your doctor may prescribe your child any of the following treatments, as appropriate for your child’s age and health status:
- Antihistamines – help manage the general symptoms
- Decongestants – help treat nasal congestion and other cold-related symptoms
- Nasal sprays or steroids
- Inhalers (for asthma)
- Immunotherapy
- For emergency cases such as anaphylaxis, first-line treatment is epinephrine. If you have an epinephrine auto-injector on-hand, administer it as taught by your doctor. Then proceed to the nearest emergency room for further assessment.
Allergies can occur in just about anyone, but children need the help of their parents and guardians when they get allergy attacks. Remember these simple management and prevention tips to keep allergies at bay.
General disclaimer
Your doctor will always be in the best position to give the appropriate medical advice for your condition. For suspected undesirable drug reaction, seek medical attention immediately and report to the FDA at www.fda.gov.ph and UNILAB, Inc. at 8-UNILAB-1 or productsafety@unilab.com.ph. Always buy your medicine from your trusted drugstores and retailers.
ASC REF. No: U181P032122AS
Sources:
- https://acaai.org/allergies/who-has-allergies/children-allergies
- https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/allergy-relief-your-child
- https://www.healthline.com/health/natural-remedies-childrens-allergies
- https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/childrens-hospital/allergy/treatment-for-allergies.aspx
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5410409/
- https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions---pediatrics/a/allergies-in-children.html
- https://www.aaaai.org/about-aaaai/newsroom/allergy-statistics#:~:text=Worldwide%2C%20allergic%20rhinitis%20affects%20between,and%2030%20%25%20of%20the%20population.&text=Worldwide%2C%20sensitization%20(IgE%20antibodies),to%2040%25%20of%20the%20population.
