Pediatric Allergies: Symptoms, treatment, & PREVENTIVE STRATEGIES

Pediatric allergies adversely impact children’s quality of life, resulting in poor sleep, school performance, and overall well-being

- Dr Neeraj Gupta

Pediatric allergies, aka childhood allergies, have become a major health concern worldwide, particularly in India, where rising environmental pollution and lifestyle changes are exacerbating them. Pediatric allergies adversely impact children's quality of life, resulting in poor sleep, academic performance, and overall well-being. Parents need to be well-informed about allergy symptoms for timely intervention, and taking preventive measures to safeguard the health and well-being of children.

SYMPTOMS

Allergic reactions happen when a child's immune system overreacts to usually harmless substances known as allergens. Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold, certain foods, insect stings, and medications. Pediatric allergies manifest in several forms, such as allergic rhinitis, asthma, food allergies, eczema, and anaphylaxis. The symptoms of these common allergies that afflict children are:

Allergic Rhinitis (hay fever).

Frequent sneezing; runny or stuffy nose; itchy, watery eyes; nasal congestion; postnasal drip leading to throat irritation.

Asthma.

Chronic cough, especially at night or after physical activity; wheezing and shortness of breath; chest tightness; frequent respiratory infections. Moreover, symptoms worsen after exposure to allergens such as pollen, dust, or pet fur.

Food allergies.

Skin rash, hives, or eczema; swelling of lips, tongue, or face; abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhoea; difficulty breathing or anaphylaxis (a severe life-threatening reaction).

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis).