In face, many of the same symptoms caused by allergies are also caused by other conditions. Before you start treating a child's allergy, consult your doctor.
Here are some signs that might indicate an allergy:
- Always seems to have a cold
- Colds last longer than several weeks
- Runny, itchy or congested nose
- Frequent sneezing
- Mouth breathing, snoring, sniffling
- Coughing, wheezing; chest congestion
- Rapid or difficulty breathing
- Repeated nose bleeds
- Frequent throat clearing; itchy throat
- Headaches
- Frequent ear infections
- High arched palate, narrow chin, overbite
- Swollen, red or watery eyes; dark circles under eyes
- Eczematous type skin rashes or hives
- Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramping
An allergy is the body's reaction to a substance that does not generally produce harmful effects in the majority of people. You and your child can come into contact with allergens in several different environments and in a number of ways:
- By breathing
- Eating or drinking
- Touching
- Coming near or having them injected into your body
People with allergies also tend to have an increased sensitivity to various “irritants,” substances that do not normally cause an allergic reaction. These include:
- Cold air, damp weather
- Rapid changes in humidity or temperature
- Tobacco or fireplace smoke
- Strong odors or sprays
- Pollution
- Exercise
In the last 20 years, allergic diseases such as asthma, food allergies and hay fever have increased significantly.
These are the most common allergens in North America:
Nonfood Allergens:
- Pollens (trees, grasses, weeds)
- Molds
- House dust mites
- Animal products such as dander (skin scales) saliva or urine
- Drugs
- Latex
- Insects
- Food Allergens:
- Peanuts
- Nuts
- Shellfish
- Fish
- Milk
- Eggs
- Wheat
- Soy
- Sesame seeds
