Having a child with allergies can be difficult for a parent and child since allergens may be lurking in food, the environment or in common household products. Avoidance of allergens is key. And it is important to confirm allergens through allergy tests, which can be done by a pediatrician or allergist. Some allergies can lead to symptoms like hives, or respiratory symptoms, while others can be more severe and cause anaphylaxis which is a medical emergency.
Food Allergies
According to Keepkidshealthy.com, food allergies affect two percent of all children, though five- eight percent of younger children are affected. Common food allergens include cow's milk, or an allergy to cow's milk protein. Others include eggs, soybean, wheat or peanuts and other nuts.
When a child has these allergies it is important to know what ingredients to look for on food labels. For example if the child has an allergy to milk, other ingredients to avoid are whey and casein. If the child has an allergy to eggs, other ingredients to avoid include albumin, globulin, ovalbumin and vitellin.
Food allergies can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, hives, eczema, difficulty breathing, or shock. Kids with Food Allergies has resources on how to read labels for egg, milk, nut, soy and wheat allergies available online.
Environmental Allergies
Common environmental allergens include pollen, dust mites, mold, animal dander, chemicals or cleaning products. These allergens can cause respiratory symptoms like congestion, nasal itchiness, itchy eyes, or for some, trigger coughing, wheezing or an asthma attack.
Environmental allergens can be minimized by taking preventive measures. Avoidance of these allergens is important. Using a HEPA filter vacuum cleaner, keeping windows closed and encasing pillows and mattresses with hypo- allergenic covers can help with seasonal allergies and dust mites. Using a humidifier in humid areas of the home can help with mold prevention. Giving away pets or keeping them out of the common areas of the home can help with pet allergies.
Contact Allergies
Contact dermatitis which is an itchy rash can develop in some children because of contact with an allergen. Some examples of such allergens are poison ivy, poison oak, certain cleaning products or detergents, cosmetics or perfumes. Identification of the allergen and avoidance is best. After contact washing the area with mild soap and water to remove any residual is important. Sometimes a physician may order topical medication or oral medication to help with symptoms.
