Allergies

What are allergies? 

An allergy is an overly exaggerated response of your child’s immune system to some trigger. Their body reacts to the trigger as if it is a harmful substance, causing a variety of symptoms that may range from a mild runny nose to severe difficulty breathing, swelling, or anaphylaxis.  

Though children often outgrow their allergies, some allergies may last a lifetime. Proper diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing your child’s allergy symptoms and preventing potentially severe reactions. 

If your child has asthma, allergic reactions may trigger or make them more susceptible to an asthma attack. 

What are the common causes of allergies?

Many things in your child’s daily environment may trigger mild-to-severe allergy symptoms. Common triggers for allergic reactions include:

• Insect bites
• Pet dander
• Cigarette smoke
• Dust
• Mold
• Pollen
• Lotions or other hygiene products
• Laundry soap
  
  

Certain foods, like nuts and dairy products, can also trigger an allergic response. If your child has allergy symptoms, your pediatrician may order allergy testing to determine the underlying causes and triggers specific to them.

What are the symptoms of allergies?

Depending on the type of allergy your child has, they may experience mild symptoms such as:

• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Watery eyes
• Runny nose
• Hives or other skin rashes
  
  

For some children, specific allergens can trigger a life-threatening reaction known as anaphylaxis. An anaphylactic reaction to a trigger causes the airways to swell and prevent adequate airflow into the lungs. This type of response is an emergency and requires immediate treatment. 

AAA Pediatrics works with you and your child to create customized preventive care plans that help you avoid exposure to triggers and reduce their risk for dangerous reactions.  

What are the treatments for allergies?

The first line of defense against allergic reactions is to make a plan for avoiding your child’s triggers. If your child is allergic to certain foods, hygiene products, or specific insects, avoidance is essential. 

To treat your child’s allergy symptoms, the team at AAA Pediatrics may order:

• Allergy testing, done in-house
• Antihistamine medications
• Steroidal medications
• Topical creams
• In-office and at-home nebulizer treatments
• Inhaler medications
  
  

If your child is at risk for an anaphylactic reaction, your pediatrician may order an injectable medication to keep on hand in case of exposure to their trigger. Whatever allergies plague your child, the team creates a plan of care to ease your mind and keep them safe and healthy.

For expert allergy care, call or schedule an appointment online at AAA Pediatrics today.