While allergies can appear at any age,
many develop in early childhood. Children should be monitored closely from
birth, especially if there is a family history of atopy (asthma, eczema and/or
hayfever). There is a genetic link to some types of allergies.
Allergy symptoms
in Children include:
·
Skin rashes or
hives (atopic dermatitis or eczema)
·
Difficulty
breathing (asthma)
·
Sneezing,
coughing, a runny nose or itchy eyes
·
Stomach upset
Common Allergy
triggers in children include:
Outdoors: pollen,
insect bites or stings, “prickly” plants
Indoors: pet or
animal hair or fur, dust mites, mould
Irritants:
cigarette smoke, perfume, strong scents, car exhaust
Food: peanuts,
eggs, milk and milk products
If you think your
child might have a serious allergy you should arrange to see your GP for
testing. Another great way to ‘rule’ things out is to keep a diary tracking
your child’s activities, including food, and drink as a way to detect the cause
of their symptom/s.
A common childhood
allergy is hay fever, and like most adults, children are most susceptible
during spring. Where possible, its best to keep your child away from the
allergens that cause distressing and uncomfortable symptoms.
A great way to
look out for and be prepared for hay fever allergies is to check the pollen
count for your nearest city here: http://www.weatherzone.com.au/pollen-index/
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