CHILDHOOD ALLERGY: HOW TO DETECT, TREAT, AND PREVENT IT IN TIME

Childhood Allergy: How to Detect, Treat, and Prevent It in Time

Childhood Allergy: How to Detect, Treat, and Prevent It in Time

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Childhood Allergy: How to Detect, Treat, and Prevent It in Time

Contents:


  • What is an allergy and why does it occur in children?


  • Main causes and allergens


  • How to identify an allergy in a child?


  • Diagnosis: when and what tests should be done?


  • Treatment and prevention of allergies in children


  • Possible complications and is it possible to completely get rid of an allergy?



1. What is an allergy and why does it occur in children?


An allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to harmless substances. For example, pollen, certain foods, or animal fur can trigger inflammation in the body. Allergies in children are becoming increasingly common due to a combination of genetic factors, environmental conditions, and lifestyle. Allergy specialists at TOP Clinic DENIS can help with various types of allergies.

2. Main Causes and Allergens


Key factors contributing to the development of allergies in children include:

  • Sterile environment: Limited exposure to microorganisms can cause the immune system to overreact to harmless substances.


  • Disrupted microbiome: Poor nutrition or frequent use of antibiotics can impair immune system function.


  • Environmental pollution: Toxins, dust, and chemicals create additional stress on the body.


  • Heredity: If one parent has allergies, the child is at higher risk.



Common allergens include:

  • Food products (milk, eggs, nuts, soy, wheat)


  • Animal fur and saliva


  • Pollen


  • Household dust and mold


  • Insect bites


  • Medications



3. How to Identify an Allergy in a Child?


Allergies can easily be mistaken for a cold, but there are some key differences:

  • Tearing, itchy eyes


  • Frequent sneezing, runny nose


  • Skin rashes, itching


  • No fever


  • Symptoms appear immediately after contact with an allergen and often recur



In comparison, a cold typically comes with fever, fatigue, and a sore throat.

4. Diagnosis: When and What Tests Should Be Done?


To confirm an allergy, the following are conducted:

  • Consultation and examination: Assessment of symptoms, diet, living conditions, and family history


  • Skin prick tests: Small amounts of potential allergens are applied to the skin to observe reactions


  • IgE blood test: Suitable for infants or during allergy flare-ups



Diagnosis should be carried out by an allergist, as self-treatment can be ineffective or even dangerous.

5. Treatment and Prevention of Allergies in Children


Allergy treatment requires an individual approach and may include:

  • Avoiding contact with allergens


  • Antihistamines


  • Nasal sprays or inhalers (for rhinitis or asthma)


  • Skin moisturizers (for dermatitis)


  • Immunotherapy (AIT) — the only method that targets the root cause of the allergy



Prevention:

  • Breastfeeding


  • Introducing solid foods (including potential allergens) before the age of one


  • Regular outdoor walks, moderate hygiene, and avoiding smoking near the child


  • Reduced use of household chemicals


  • Regular airing and humidifying of indoor spaces



6. Possible Complications and Can Allergies Be Outgrown?


Some food allergies, such as to milk or eggs, may disappear with age. However, most inhalant allergies tend to persist throughout life. Without proper treatment, allergies can lead to serious consequences:

  • Bronchial asthma


  • Anaphylaxis


  • Sleep disturbances, learning difficulties, and reduced quality of life



That’s why it’s important to consult a doctor in time and manage the allergy together with the specialists at DENIS Clinic.

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