Navigating Childhood Allergies: Your Top Questions Answered

As parents, we’re dedicated to keeping our children healthy and safe. It’s natural to worry about them developing childhood allergies, especially since allergies can lead to missed school days and, in some cases, even life-threatening reactions.

To help you make informed decisions for your child’s health, we’ve compiled answers to the six most common questions parents have about childhood allergies.

What are allergies?

An allergy is an abnormal immune response to a substance that the body mistakenly identifies as harmful. Allergies are a significant health concern in the U.S., affecting over 50 million Americans annually, and contributing to at least two million missed school days for children each year.

Allergies can be triggered by a wide range of substances, including outdoor allergens like pollen (grass, trees, mold), animal dander, certain foods, and medications. While many allergic reactions are mild, some can cause anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially life-threatening reaction characterized by hives, itching, flushing, swelling of the lips and tongue, and difficulty breathing.

How does someone develop an allergy?

Allergies develop when the body’s immune system perceives a typically harmless substance (an allergen) as a threat. In response, the immune system produces antibodies to “fight off” this perceived invader. These antibodies then trigger the release of chemicals, such as histamine, which are responsible for the various allergy symptoms like sneezing, gastrointestinal upset, or hives.

Why do some people have no allergies while others have many?

The predisposition to developing allergies is largely genetic. While people don’t inherit a specific allergy, they inherit a higher likelihood of developing allergies in general. Statistics show that if one parent has allergies, there’s approximately a 50% chance their child will develop allergies. If both parents have allergies, the child’s risk can increase to as high as 75%. However, it’s important to note that allergies can also develop in individuals with no family history of allergies.

What are the most common types of childhood allergies?

Common environmental allergens include mold spores, pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds, pet dander, and dust mites. Allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever, affects a significant number of children. This condition is an allergy to airborne pollen, and its symptoms are most prevalent in the spring and fall when pollen counts are high. Perennial allergic rhinitis, on the other hand, is a year-round allergy to substances like mold, dust, and pet dander.

Food allergies are also prevalent, affecting approximately two million children in the U.S. The most common food allergens include cow’s milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, wheat, fish, and shellfish.

What are the signs and symptoms of childhood allergies?

Common allergy symptoms can include a stuffy or runny nose, sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, excessive mucus production (phlegm), and post-nasal drip. Other symptoms may involve asthma, eczema, chronic sinus or ear infections, and fatigue.

Food allergy symptoms can differ and may include wheezing, difficulty breathing, coughing, throat tightness, hives, itchy or watery eyes, as well as gastrointestinal issues like stomach ache, vomiting, and diarrhea.

What are the best treatment options for allergies in kids?

A variety of treatment options are available for children with allergies. Commonly used treatments include antihistamines and decongestants, available as both prescription and over-the-counter medications in nasal sprays or pill form. For children whose parents wish for them to develop a long-term immunity to specific allergens, immunotherapy may be a suitable option.

Immunotherapy typically comes in two forms: allergy shots and sublingual (under the tongue) drops. Allergy shots involve a series of injections containing small amounts of the allergen, administered over an extended period. This method can be effective but may be uncomfortable for children who are apprehensive about needles.

Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT), also known as allergy drops, involves placing drops containing a serum of natural allergen extracts under the tongue. Over time, through consistent exposure, the child’s immune system gradually develops a tolerance, leading to reduced allergic reactions. SLIT can often be administered from the comfort of home and is generally considered safe for children, including those under age five.

“Understanding your child’s specific allergies is the first crucial step towards effective management,” says Dr. Andrea Lanao. “With accurate diagnosis through allergy testing, we can develop a personalized treatment plan that significantly improves a child’s quality of life, allowing them to participate fully in school and activities without the constant burden of allergic symptoms.”

To learn more about allergy treatment options for kids, schedule an appointment with your child’s pediatric provider.