Allergies, Pediatric
An allergy is a condition in which the body's defense system (immune system) comes in contact with an allergen and reacts to it. An allergen is anything that causes an allergic reaction. Allergens cause the immune system to make proteins for fighting infections (antibodies). These antibodies cause cells to release chemicals called histamines that set off the symptoms of an allergic reaction.
Allergies often affect the nasal passages (allergic rhinitis), eyes (allergic conjunctivitis), skin (atopic dermatitis), and stomach. Allergies can be mild, moderate, or severe. They cannot spread from person to person. Allergies can develop at any age and may be outgrown.
What are the causes?
This condition is caused by allergens. Common allergens include:
Outdoor allergens, such as pollen, car fumes, and mold.
Indoor allergens, such as dust, smoke, mold, and pet dander.
Other allergens, such as foods, medicines, scents, insect bites or stings, and other skin irritants.
What increases the risk?
Your child is more likely to develop this condition if he or she:
Has family members with allergies.
Has family members who have any condition that may be caused by allergens, such as asthma. This may make your child more likely to have other allergies.
What are the signs or symptoms?
Symptoms of this condition depend on the severity of the allergy.
Mild to moderate symptoms
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Runny nose, stuffy nose (nasal congestion), or sneezing.
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Itchy mouth, ears, or throat.
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A feeling of mucus dripping down the back of your child's throat (postnasal drip).
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Sore throat.
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Itchy, red, watery, or puffy eyes.
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Skin rash, or itchy, red, swollen areas of skin (hives).
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Stomach cramps or bloating.
Severe symptoms
Severe allergies to food, medicine, or insect bites may cause anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening. Symptoms include:
A red (flushed) face.
Wheezing or coughing.
Swollen lips, tongue, or mouth.
Tight or swollen throat.
Chest pain or tightness, or rapid heartbeat.
Trouble breathing or shortness of breath.
Pain in the abdomen, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Dizziness or fainting.
How is this diagnosed?
This condition is diagnosed based on your child's symptoms, family and medical history, and a physical exam. Your child may also have tests, such as:
You may be asked to:
How is this treated?
Treatment for this condition depends on your child's age and symptoms. Treatment may include:
Cold, wet cloths (cold compresses) to soothe itching and swelling.
Eye drops or nasal sprays.
Nasal irrigation to help clear your child's mucus or keep the nasal passages moist.
A humidifier to add moisture to the air.
Skin creams to treat rashes or itching.
Oral antihistamines or other medicines to block the reaction or to treat inflammation.
Diet changes to remove foods that cause allergies.
- Exposing your child again and again to tiny amounts of allergens to help him or her build a defense against it (tolerance). This is called immunotherapy. Examples include:
Emergency injection for anaphylaxis. You give your child a shot using a syringe (auto-injector) that contains the amount of medicine your child needs. The health care provider will teach you how to give an injection.
Follow these instructions at home:
Medicines
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Give or apply over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your child's health care provider.
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Have your child always carry an auto-injector pen if he or she is at risk of anaphylaxis. Give your child an injection as told by the health care provider.
Eating and drinking
General instructions
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Have your child wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace to let others know that he or she has had anaphylaxis before.
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Help your child avoid known allergens whenever possible.
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Talk with your child's school staff and caregivers about your child's allergies and how to prevent them. Develop an emergency plan that includes what to do if your child has a severe allergy.
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Keep all follow-up visits as told by your child's health care provider. This is important.
Contact a health care provider if:
- Your child has symptoms of anaphylaxis. These include:
Swollen mouth, tongue, or throat.
Pain or tightness in his or her chest.
Trouble breathing or shortness of breath.
Dizziness or fainting.
Severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or diarrhea.
These symptoms may represent a serious problem that is an emergency. Do not wait to see if the symptoms will go away. Get medical help right away. Call your local emergency services (911 in the U.S.).
Summary
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Help your child avoid known allergens when possible.
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Make sure that school staff and other caregivers know about your child's allergies.
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If your child has a history of anaphylaxis, have your child wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace and always carry an auto-injector.
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Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening emergency. Get help right away for your child.
This information is not intended to replace advice given to you by your health care provider. Make sure you discuss any questions you have with your health care provider.