Do you know allergies are hypersensitivity reactions to normally harmless substances? An allergy transpires when the immune system overreacts to an allergen, treating it as an intruder and trying to battle it off. Equally some allergic reactions are seasonal and happen only at certain times of the years, while others can happen anytime when someone comes in contact with an allergen. Besides, the type and severity of allergy symptoms vary from person to person. Hypersensitivities may show up sneezing, throat tightness, stuffy nose, vomiting, breathing, fainting, etc. In some cases, a severe allergic reaction can result in an anaphylactic reaction that can be life-threatening. So, as parents knowing the kind of allergy your child has can help you take the precautionary measures and improve their quality of life. Read on.
Symptoms of allergies in children
- Itchy skin, hives, swelling
- Burning, watery, red, eyes
- Stuffy, runny nose, sneezing
- Headache
- Wheezing/asthma
- Fatigue
- Ear infections
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Eczema
Common allergens for children
- Pollen
- Animal dander
- Food like eggs, milk, soy, corn, shellfish, fish, citrus fruits, wheat/gluten, tree nuts, peanuts, etc
- Dust mites
- Mold
- Tobacco
- Wood smoke
- Chemical fumes, aerosols, perfumes, scented products
- Feathers
Types of allergic reactions in children
Seasonal hypersensitivity – This allergy can occur at any time of the year. They occur when the child becomes exposed to environmental allergens including pollen, dust, smoke, etc. This can affect more than 40% of children.
Skin hypersensitivity – Skin is the largest organ of the human body and it can get affected when certain metals or harmful substances come into contact.
Food allergy – This happens when the child’s body specifically reacts to certain foods. It generally happens when the immune system confuses food compounds to be pathogens and mounts an immune response.
Pet allergy – Pet dander can be potential allergens many times and the symptoms of pet allergy include skin rashes, runny noses, coughing, sneezing, difficulty in breathing, itchy red eyes, etc.
Remedies to treat allergy or hypersensitivity
Supplements that are rich in rich in nutrients like calcium, magnesium, carotenoids, essential fatty acids, selenium, bioflavonoids, vitamin B, and vitamin C can help relieve inflammations, soothe irritated mucus membranes, support immune functions and lowers the symptoms of allergy.
When it comes to skin hypersensitivity applying ice packs or wet cloth on the itchy skins can provide instant relief. Equally cooling agents such as calamine and menthol can prove helpful.
Ask your child to wash pollen from hands and face after outdoor activities, and also warn him not to touch his eyes or nose while outside.
Eating colorful fruits and vegetables provide protective flavonoids to your child’s body. Also, avoiding unhealthy fats and oils, sugar, and refined carbohydrates are recommended to reduce stress on the body. Besides, make sure that your child is drinking plenty of water which can help at thinning mucus secretions.
Final statement
Hypersensitivities are mostly manageable. But in severe hypersensitivity conditions when natural allergy remedies don’t provide the relief it is good to see a doctor.
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