What causes allergies in children?
Allergies are the body’s overreaction to an allergen as it works to fight off a perceived threat. The immune system makes antibodies that cause the release of chemicals, like histamines, into the bloodstream. These chemicals are what cause the physical symptoms of allergies in the nose, throat, eyes, skin, and lungs.
Common causes of allergies in children include:
- Mold
- Pollen
- Pet hair
- Perfumes
- Insect bites
- Cigarette smoke
Children may also develop allergies to certain foods, including milk products, eggs, and peanuts.
Some allergies may only occur seasonally, such as during the spring and fall, when pollen counts are high. Some may occur only when your child comes into contact with an allergen trigger.
Children can inherit allergies from their parents, or they may develop allergies on their own. In some cases, children outgrow allergies by the time they reach adulthood.
What are the symptoms of allergies?
Allergy symptoms vary from child to child and can range from mild to severe. Common allergy symptoms include:
- Runny nose
- Watery eyes
- Postnasal drip
- Nasal congestion
Allergies can also trigger asthma attacks in children that have the condition.
Food allergies may be serious and can cause life-threatening complications, including anaphylaxis – an allergic reaction that causes breathing problems and a sudden drop in blood pressure.
How are allergies diagnosed?
At Kid Care Pediatrics, Dr. Goldstein can evaluate your child’s symptoms and create a custom care plan to help manage them effectively. He can also help identify existing allergy triggers.
Dr. Goldstein ensures your child’s allergies don’t develop into other medical complications, such as sinus or ear infections.
What treatments are available for allergies?
There is no cure for allergies, but Dr. Goldstein can help reduce your child’s exposure to possible allergens.
To treat allergy symptoms that disrupt your child’s daily life, Dr. Goldstein may recommend over-the-counter or prescription medicines, including:
- Nasal sprays
- Antihistamines
- Eye drops
- Allergy shots
If allergies result in infections of the ear or sinuses, Dr. Goldstein may provide a course of antibiotics to resolve the infection.
Schedule an allergy evaluation with Dr. Goldstein at Kid Care Pediatrics by calling the office or using the online booking feature.