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Contents
What is allergy in children
Main types of allergies
Symptoms of allergy in children
How to distinguish allergy from a cold or virus
When to seek medical help
Conclusion
Frequently Asked Questions
If your child frequently sneezes, has rashes, or coughs without an obvious reason, you may be wondering whether they are suffering from an allergy. This is a growing issue that often goes unrecognized at first. In this article, we’ll explore what allergies in children are, the different types, the symptoms, and how to tell them apart from a virus or cold. We’ll help you recognize when it’s time to seek medical attention and what to do in case of an allergic rash or other reactions.
What is allergy in children
An allergy is an immune system reaction to otherwise harmless substances such as dust, pollen, food, or animal dander. In children, it develops when the body perceives these substances as threats and overreacts by releasing histamine and other chemicals. This causes various physical symptoms—from skin reactions to breathing difficulties.
A child’s fragile body is still building its immunity, making it more vulnerable to allergens. According to CDC data, nearly 6% of the U.S. population suffers from food allergies, and the rates of respiratory and skin allergies are also increasing.
It’s important to note that allergies are not contagious. Symptoms may appear immediately after contact with the allergen or after some time, which often makes it difficult for parents to identify the cause. The reaction isn’t always severe—sometimes it manifests as a mild cough, rash, or runny nose.
Some children are genetically predisposed to developing allergies if one of the parents has allergic conditions. Additionally, factors such as polluted air and lack of exposure to natural environments also increase the risk. Allergies can significantly affect a child’s daily life—disrupting sleep, concentration at school, and their ability to play peacefully.
With early diagnosis and proper care, allergies can be managed. Recognizing the symptoms and potential irritants is the first step toward controlling the condition.
Main types of allergies
Allergies in children can be divided into several main categories based on the source of the allergen:
1. Environmental allergies
These are the most common allergies in children and are caused by factors present all around us. The main culprits include:
Pollen: Reaction to pollen from grasses, trees, and flowers leads to seasonal allergic rhinitis, known as hay fever.
Dust mites: These microscopic creatures live in household dust and mattresses and cause chronic allergies that may manifest as coughing, runny nose, and asthma attacks.
Mold: Mold spores that spread through the air can trigger allergic reactions and worsen respiratory issues.
2. Food allergies
Food allergies are especially dangerous in children, as they can cause severe reactions even with minimal contact with the allergen. The most common allergy-inducing foods are:
Nuts (peanuts, walnuts, almonds)
Eggs
Cow’s milk
Fish and seafood
Soy products
Wheat
It’s important for parents to know that children may outgrow some food allergies, while others can persist for life.
3. Animal Allergies
Pet hair, saliva, and dander often irritate the respiratory tract and cause itchy eyes. An allergic reaction can occur even if the animal is not nearby—its allergens can linger on clothes and furniture.
4. Drug Allergies
Various medications can trigger reactions such as rashes and anaphylaxis—a severe allergic reaction that requires emergency care. Some children may also show intolerance to vaccines or painkillers.
Identifying the type of allergy is crucial for choosing the right treatment and preventing future episodes.
5. Allergies to Stings and Toxins
Allergic reactions caused by insect stings/bites or contact with toxic substances form a specific group that can cause both localized and systemic reactions in children.
Insect stings or bites: Bees, wasps, and hornets can sting a child, injecting venom into the skin. Some types of ants can also sting or bite, releasing substances that irritate the skin. This usually causes pain, redness, and itching around the sting site. In normal cases, these symptoms disappear within a few days. In rare cases, however, it can lead to a severe allergic reaction—anaphylactic shock—which requires immediate medical attention.
Contact with poisonous plants and substances: Besides stings, children may develop allergic reactions after contact with toxic plants or chemicals that cause skin allergies and irritation. Examples of poisonous plants include poison ivy, yellow acacia, and others.
Symptoms of Allergy in Children
Allergy symptoms can vary depending on the type and the individual’s reaction. The most common manifestations include:
Respiratory symptoms – chronic runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing, dry cough, or difficulty breathing. Wheezing may also occur, especially at night. Hay fever is often mistaken for a common cold.
Skin reactions – red spots, pimples, itching, dry skin, rash around the mouth or behind the ears. Skin allergies may also be accompanied by swelling, especially around the eyelids and hands.
Gastrointestinal symptoms – vomiting, stomach pain, bloating, diarrhea—especially after consuming certain foods.
Eye symptoms – red, watery, itchy eyes—typical for pollen or dust allergies. Eyelid swelling may also be present.
Anaphylaxis symptoms – severe throat swelling, difficulty breathing, drop in blood pressure, dizziness, and loss of consciousness.
If your child shows more than one of these signs without another clear cause, it may be an allergic reaction.
How to Distinguish Allergy from a Cold or Virus
Differentiating between an allergy and a viral infection can be difficult, especially during cold season. However, there are several distinguishing features:
Fever: Allergies rarely cause fever, while viral infections almost always do.
Duration: A cold usually resolves within 10 days. Allergy symptoms can last for weeks or even months with ongoing exposure to the allergen.
Nasal discharge: With allergies, nasal secretions are clear and watery, while with a cold they may thicken and turn yellowish.
Seasonality and recurrence: If symptoms appear every spring or when in a dusty environment, the likelihood of hay fever or dust allergy is high.
Itching and rash: Allergies often cause itchy eyes and skin rashes, which are rarely seen with a cold.
Monitoring the frequency, recurrence, and circumstances of symptom onset is key to diagnosis.
When to Seek Medical Help
Some symptoms indicate that you should consult a doctor as soon as possible:
Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or shortness of breath
Swelling around the eyes, mouth, or tongue
Recurrent rashes that do not respond to home treatment
Persistent cough and runny nose without improvement
Suspected food allergy or reaction to medication
It’s important not to self-medicate with antihistamines without consulting a doctor. Pediatricians usually order allergy tests to identify the exact allergen. Early intervention is important not only for symptom relief but also for preventing complications such as asthma.
Conclusion
Allergies in children should not be underestimated. Whether it’s a skin allergy, hay fever, or food intolerance, timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment can significantly improve your child’s condition.
Recognizing the symptoms and distinguishing between an allergy and a common cold is an important step toward ensuring proper care.
If you have doubts, don’t delay consulting a pediatrician—it’s the best way to ensure your child receives the necessary attention and treatment in time.
This article is for informational purposes and does not replace consultation with a specialist. If you’d like to read more helpful articles, feel free to explore our health portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my child has an allergic rash?
Wash the area with lukewarm water, avoid scratching, and apply a hypoallergenic cream. For severe reactions—consult a doctor.
How long does an allergic rash last?
An allergic rash usually resolves within a few days to a week if treated and contact with the allergen is avoided. If the reaction is more severe or untreated, it may last longer. For persistent or worsening symptoms, a doctor’s consultation is essential.
Can allergies go away with age?
Yes, some children outgrow certain allergies, especially food-related ones, but others may persist for life.
