Common Childhood Allergies: Essential Information for Parents

Is your child experiencing unusual symptoms? You're not alone. In the United States, over 25% of children were reported to have allergies in 2021. These conditions typically emerge during infancy or childhood and can significantly impact your child's ability to sleep, play, and thrive at school. Below, we discuss the most common allergens and symptoms to help you recognize potential allergies in your child.

When your child encounters an allergen, their immune system responds by identifying it as a threat, even though it's harmless for most people. Common allergens include foods, pet dander, and pollen from trees and grasses. This defensive reaction can lead to a variety of symptoms as the body tries to combat what it perceives as a foreign invader.

Be alert for these signs that may indicate your child has allergies:

• Persistent itchy, red, watery, or swollen eyes for more than a week.
• Chronic runny nose or nasal congestion.
• Itchy or tingly sensations in the mouth or throat.
• Frequent scratching of the ears.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, these symptoms could suggest allergies such as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, the most common type among children. Noticing a pattern where these symptoms arise during specific seasons can also be a telltale sign.

The skin, our largest organ, can serve as a canvas for allergy reactions. Look for:

• Eczema: Dry, red, scaly patches that are often itchy.
• Hives: Red, itchy welts varying in size, from tiny spots to large areas.

As noted by the American Academy of Dermatology, hives can occur as a direct reaction to allergens.

Allergies may influence your child’s breathing. Watch for:

• Wheezing sounds during breaths.
• Rapid breathing or shortness of breath.
• A persistent dry cough with clear mucus.

If your child seems to tire quickly during play, it may indicate an underlying allergy. Consult your pediatrician to incorporate comprehensive assessments.

Intestinal allergies may manifest as:

• Frequent stomach cramps.
• Recurring diarrhea.
• Headaches or excessive fatigue.

Behavioral symptoms can also arise, with children showing increased irritability or restlessness. Keeping a symptom log can be instrumental in discussing these observations with your pediatrician.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identifies the following eight foods as the most common culprits for food allergies:

• Milk
• Eggs
• Peanuts
• Tree nuts (almonds, cashews, etc.)
• Fish (bass, cod, etc.)
• Shellfish (crab, shrimp, etc.)
• Soy
• Wheat

Some children may also have sensitivities to citrus fruits. It’s crucial to identify these allergens since they can be present in unexpected foods, such as cereals or packaged products.

Pets can trigger allergy symptoms even if they have short hair. Rather than the pet itself, it’s their dander (dead skin), saliva, urine, and fur that may provoke reactions. If your child exhibits allergies after interacting with pets, consider discussing animal allergy testing with your healthcare professional.

Your family pediatrician is an excellent resource for diagnosing allergies and formulating a management plan tailored to your child's needs. They may recommend antihistamines or other medications for relief and can guide you on preventive strategies, such as avoiding certain foods, managing outdoor activities when pollen counts are low, and promoting hygiene after pet contact.