Allergic diseases are among the most common chronic conditions in childhood. Approximately 20-25% of children are affected by at least one allergic condition. Allergy occurs when the immune system overreacts to normally harmless substances (allergens). This guide covers common allergy types, symptoms, and treatment approaches in children.
The Allergic March
The "allergic march" describes how allergic diseases may follow one another during childhood:
- Food allergy and eczema (0-2 years): The earliest allergic conditions
- Asthma (3-5 years): Recurrent wheezing
- Allergic rhinitis / hay fever (6+ years): The latest to appear
Food Allergies
The top 8 allergens (cow's milk, egg, peanut, wheat, soy, tree nuts, fish, shellfish) account for 90% of food allergies in children.
Symptoms
- Skin: Hives (urticaria), redness, itching, lip/eye swelling
- Digestive: Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain
- Respiratory: Runny nose, wheezing, throat tightness
- Anaphylaxis (EMERGENCY): Multi-system severe reaction — difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, breathing difficulty, blood pressure drop
Diagnosis
- Detailed history
- Skin prick test
- Blood specific IgE measurement
- Oral food challenge (gold standard — in hospital, controlled conditions)
Management
- Complete elimination of the responsible food
- Label reading for hidden allergens
- Emergency action plan with epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen)
- Cow's milk and egg allergies often resolve by age 5-6. Peanut and seafood allergies tend to persist.
Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)
The most common chronic skin condition in children, usually starting in the first 6 months.
- Dry, itchy, red skin patches
- Infants: face, scalp, outer surfaces
- Older children: inner elbows, behind knees, neck, wrists
Treatment: Moisturize at least twice daily (within 3 minutes of bathing), lukewarm short baths with wash oil, topical corticosteroids for flares (by prescription), identify triggers (heat, sweat, wool, harsh detergents).
Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever)
Inflammation of nasal mucosa from allergens — seasonal (pollen) or perennial (dust mites, mold, pet dander).
- Sneezing, clear runny nose, nasal congestion
- Eye itching, watering, redness
- Mouth breathing, snoring, disrupted sleep
Treatment: Reduce allergen exposure, nasal saline washes, antihistamines, nasal corticosteroid sprays, allergy immunotherapy for severe cases (ages 5+, 3-5 year course).
Anaphylaxis: Life-Saving Knowledge
Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can be fatal within minutes:
- Widespread hives + breathing difficulty
- Throat swelling, difficulty swallowing
- Dizziness, confusion, fainting
What to do: Call emergency services immediately. Administer epinephrine auto-injector to outer thigh. Lay child on back with legs elevated (sit up if breathing difficulty). Second dose possible after 5-15 minutes.
When to See a Doctor
- Suspected allergic reaction to any food
- Eczema not controlled despite treatment
- Persistent nasal congestion affecting school performance
- Recurrent wheezing episodes
- History of anaphylaxis (for emergency action plan)
Allergies can be successfully managed with proper diagnosis and treatment. If you suspect allergies in your child, contact our clinic for a comprehensive evaluation.
