Allergies in Children: Identifying, Managing, and Preventing

Does your child suffer from allergies? Let our team at A Caring Touch Pediatrics in Lexington, KY, help you find the best course of treatment and prevention.

Parent's Guide to Allergies in Children 

 Allergies are more than an annoyance. They can impact your child’s quality of life and health. Parents play an integral role in minimizing this impact by understanding their child’s allergies, what to do when they are triggered, and how to prevent those triggers. The team at A Caring Touch Pediatrics in Lexington, KY, put together this quick guide to help. 

Symptoms of Allergies 

 Allergies are quite simply a reaction to an allergen, which is a substance your immune system is trying to get rid of despite it not being harmful. The immune system goes into hyperdrive to fight and protect the body from that allergen, which leads to symptoms such as: 

• Watery, red, itchy eyes 
• Rashes 
• Dry, itchy skin 
• Sneezing, stuffy nose, or runny nose 
• Itchy ears or itching on the roof of the mouth 

 Allergens can also trigger asthma symptoms, such as coughing, shortness of breath, and wheezing. 

Identifying Allergens and Triggers 

 Some allergies are easy to identify, such as is the case when people have a severe reaction to peanuts. However, in some cases, it can take some time to determine the exact allergen. Some of the most common include: 

• Medication 
• Rubber latex 
• Certain foods 
• Mold 
• Dust mites 
• Pollen, including grass, tree, and weed pollen
• Pests 
• Soaps and detergents
• Animal dander

 Keeping a log of your child’s reactions – or lack thereof – to various triggers can help. Your pediatrician can also complete allergy tests or refer you to an allergist. 

Prevention

 Identifying the exact allergens is a crucial step in preventing your child’s suffering. You can make plans to avoid exposure to allergens in most cases. 

For example, you might need to change laundry detergent, add an air purifier, or remove specific foods from the home. If your child is allergic to pet dander, you might consider putting your pet outdoors or bathing your pet outside. Your pediatrician can walk you through recommendations according to the allergen.

Management 

 Even with diligence, there can be times your child is exposed to their allergens, such as at school or a friend’s house. It’s important to have a management plan in place. 

Keep antihistamines and any prescribed medications on hand, as well as an EpiPen for intense reactions. Be sure any caregivers are aware of the steps that should be taken. Also, keep appointments with your pediatrician and share any new reactions, symptoms, or additional information. 

Improve your child’s health and quality of life by being proactive against their allergies. Schedule an appointment with our team at A Caring Touch Pediatrics in Lexington, KY, by calling (859) 264-0660.