What Are Common Allergy Symptoms in Children?

A skin rash, itchy skin, sneezing, and other symptoms are all signs your child might have an allergy. Symptoms can cause children discomfort and take away from their enjoyment of certain activities, such as playing outdoors. Allergy treatments are available that can provide lasting relief from unwanted symptoms. The experienced and caring pediatricians at Timberlake Pediatrics in Sacramento, CA, diagnose and treat allergies in children.

Allergy Symptoms

Allergic reactions occur as a result of the immune system’s response to a specific substance or allergen. The type of symptoms experienced often depend on the particular allergen. For example, some children are allergic to certain foods, such as peanuts, dairy products, or shellfish. Symptoms of an allergic reaction to one of these foods could include shortness of breath, vomiting, swelling of the tongue or face, mouth itchiness, or an upset stomach.

There are many other substances, in addition to certain foods, that can produce an allergic reaction. Examples of other allergens include pollen, dust, pet dander, insect bites, certain medications, and mold. Seven common allergy symptoms children might experience in reaction to these substances include:

• Hives or a skin rash and itchy skin
• Shortness of breath
• A cough or wheezing
• A runny or stuffy nose
• Itchy or watery eyes
• A scratchy throat
• Sneezing

Allergy Testing

Allergy tests can be performed to identify the specific allergen(s) causing your child’s symptoms. Allergy testing involves exposing the skin to different allergens to observe what reaction occurs. Small amounts of different allergens are placed on the skin, which is gently scratched or pricked to allow the substance to enter the body. Allergens will cause a reaction, such as a rash or itchy skin. If there is no reaction, your child is not allergic to that specific substance.

Allergy Treatments

We treat many different types of allergies at our Sacramento, CA, pediatric practice. The specific treatment recommend for your child will depend on several factors, such as the type of allergic reaction and the substance causing it. Some allergy symptoms can be managed with antihistamine medications, decongestants, topical lotions and ointments, or steroid sprays. Treatment could also include emergency injections of adrenaline for allergens that cause a severe life-threatening reaction, such as anaphylactic shock.

Another way to treat allergies is with immunotherapy. This method of treatment involves exposing the body to small doses of an allergen regularly over time to help the body build up tolerance and immunity to the substance. Eventually, the allergen will no longer cause an allergic reaction once the body is completely immune. The small doses of allergen can be administered by injection or sublingually by placing a few drops under the tongue.

Allergies can leave your child feeling miserable, but treatment can help manage symptoms or eliminate them altogether. To have your child diagnosed and treated for allergies, call Timberlake Pediatrics in Sacramento, CA, at (916) 688-5040.