Understanding Childhood Allergies: Symptoms, Management, and Prevention Tips

Understanding Childhood Allergies: Symptoms, Management, and Prevention Tips

Allergies are a common occurrence, particularly in younger children who tend to have less-mature mucosal defenses which permits the increased absorption of allergens. An allergic reaction can occur when the immune system reacts to this absorption of something in the environment such as food, pollen, or dust.

The most common allergens in children are egg, peanut, tree nuts, milk, soy, wheat, and particular seafood products, as well as insect bites, bee stings, and allergic rhinitis (aka hayfever). In some cases children can grow out of allergies, however, it is important to continue to remain vigilant when consuming these products during early childhood as this is not always the case.

Allergic reactions can range from mild to severe. Anaphylaxis is the most severe form of reaction and it can be life-threatening. If you lack the medical knowledge yourself, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional who has the requisite online ABSN program or similar qualification, to manage allergic reactions. Read on to understand more about childhood allergies, the most common symptoms, management, and prevention tips.

Hayfever is a common allergen.

Photo by Leo Rivas on Unsplash.

Understanding child allergy symptoms

Any child can develop an allergy, however, it tends to be more prevalent in families with a history of allergies. While some care can be taken, a parent can’t control every single thing their child is exposed to, so the focus instead should be on monitoring a child for symptoms of allergies.

With early identification, allergies can be more easily managed ensuring an improved quality of life for your child, less missed care or school days, and fewer days spent caring for a sick child in what may have been an avoidable occurrence.

Mild to moderate allergic symptoms

Mild to moderate allergic reactions will generally result in one or more of these symptoms;

  • Hives, welts, or wheals (a red, lumpy rash)
  • Tingling feeling around the face – particularly the mouth
  • Stomach pain
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Swelling- particularly around the face

Severe allergic symptoms

More severe allergic reactions will impact a child’s breathing or circulation (heart and blood pressure), generally resulting in one or more of the following symptoms. These symptoms indicate they are having an anaphylactic reaction, with mild to moderate symptoms also potentially being present;

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Noisy breathing
  • Wheezing or persistent coughing
  • Swelling of the tongue
  • Swelling or tightness in the throat
  • Difficulty talking
  • Dizziness
  • Collapsing
  • Becoming pale and floppy (infants to young children)
  • Note; stomach pain and vomiting alone can be signs of anaphylaxis after an insect bite or sting

Managing child allergies

Managing a child experiencing an allergic reaction, especially for the first time, can be a frightening experience for a parent. The most important thing you can do for your child is to stay calm and do the following;

Mild to moderate allergic reactions

If this is the first time your child has had an allergic reaction, take them to a GP immediately. Your GP will confirm whether your child has had a reaction and advise you on how to treat it if it happens again. They will also likely warn you a more severe reaction may occur if your child is exposed to the allergen a second time.

A GP may also refer you to an allergy specialist who can better diagnose allergies, asthma and immunologic conditions.

Severe allergic reactions

If your child is showing any signs of anaphylaxis, call an ambulance immediately.

If you have been provided with an adrenaline autoinjector (also known as an EpiPen), it is the most effective first aid treatment you can provide for your child and should be injected immediately into the outer mid-thigh muscle. It can be administered through a single layer of clothing.

Preventing allergic and anaphylactic reactions

The key part of preventing allergic reactions is obvious – prevention by avoiding the trigger. While this is not always possible, particularly in the instance of insect bites and stings, there are still steps that can be taken.

Food reactions

If your child has a food allergen, teaching them what happens if they consume the food is an important first step. You should also talk to them about not sharing or swapping food with others, and to make sure they always wash their hands before consuming any food.

If your child is in the care of other adults, always advise them of your child’s allergies and ensure they have access to your child’s adrenalin autoinjector. Schools and childcare centers have policies to manage allergic reactions and staff will be trained on how to manage reactions if they occur.

Asthma and anaphylactic reactions

If your child suffers from asthma or anaphylaxis, it is vital to maintain good control of their asthma symptoms. Ensure they have their asthma pump or other management tools handy wherever they go, and they have a thorough understanding of how to use it. This can reduce the risk of severe breathing difficulties they may experience during an allergic reaction.

Always seek the advice of your healthcare professional regarding childhood allergy management and prevention.

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