Signs and Symptoms to Watch

Chances are, you’re likely one of the millions of Americans who have allergies. I know, I know, they’re the most annoying thing to deal with day-to-day. Trust me, I understand, but it’s also likely that you have been dealing with them from a young age, as most allergies first appear during childhood.  Childhood allergies are extremely common, and it’s important to know when they appear so your child can get treated early and properly when they appear. Here are the typical childhood allergy signs, symptoms, treatments, and other information so you can be prepared in case your child develops allergies.

Skin Signs and Symptoms

When children first develop allergies, the part of the body that is often first affected is the skin.  Children might experience eczema, which are dry, rough, and red patches of skin on the body. Hives may also appear, which are red welts that can range in size, according to Karen Richardson Gill and Treacy Colbert. If your child is experiencing persisting rough, itchy skin on any part of their body, it may be time to contact your doctor about treating your child’s allergy.

Respiratory and Others

Respiratory symptoms are often an initial indicator of allergies in children. When a child first experiences an allergy, it is common to develop a dry cough, wheezing, chest tightness and shortness of breath.  If clear mucus appears when your child is coughing, this could also be a symptom of an allergy. Respiratory symptoms are more common in older children, though, as younger children often primarily experience skin symptoms. There are allergy symptoms that extend beyond the respiratory system and the skin.  Cramps, nausea, and fatigue are all signs. Red and itchy eyes, sneezing, runny nose, congestion, and itchy ears are all symptoms as well.  While these are some of the more common symptoms, there are several that are not as easily identified. For more information on symptoms, or allergies in general, we recommend you visit the American Pediatric Society, or contact your pediatrician.

Common Childhood Allergies

You may be familiar with many common childhood allergies, and may even experience them yourself as they carry into adulthood.  Some common ones to look out for in your child are some foods such as milk, peanuts, and various types of seafood. Naturally, pets are the source of many allergies beginning in childhood, so if your child is experiencing any of the above symptoms when holding or being near animals, it may be time to consider contacting a pediatrician. Allergies are common in childhood, so if you seek out pediatric help when symptoms arise, they can be treated properly.  Fortunately, Dr. Bair offers services to help with childhood allergies, so if you have questions or want to schedule an appointment, reach out.  If you would like some more information now, we recommend you visit the American Pediatric Society’s website.  Make sure you take the first step immediately when you notice any allergy symptoms in your child, so they can get treatment to live comfortably.