Allergies

Many parents in our community associate spring time with two things: beautiful weather and seasonal allergies! However, allergies can happen at all times during the year. Allergy symptoms come from the body's reaction to certain triggers in the environment. At Valencia Health, we are able to do a comprehensive evaluation of allergies and together come up with a plan to alleviate symptoms and prevent life-threatening reactions. 

IMPORTANT: Any life-threatening reactions, such as loss of consciousness, trouble breathing, swelling of the throat or airway, continuous vomiting with severe abdominal pain should be immediately evaluated at your nearest emergency department. 

What are childhood allergies?

Allergies develop when your child’s immune system launches an attack against a substance that is not normally harmful to humans. These attacks create symptoms linked to allergies. Once the body creates antibodies to ward off a specific substance, those symptoms will recur whenever a child is exposed to the triggering substance in the future. 

Researchers are not sure of the exact cause of allergies but believe a combination of genetic and environmental factors is to blame. 

Some of the substances that commonly trigger allergic reactions in children include:

• Peanuts
• Soy
• Insect bites or stings
• Pollen
• Pet dander
• Household chemicals
• Mold
• Dust mites
• Cigarette smoke

Avoiding triggers is one way to reduce the frequency of allergic reactions. That said, any parent knows that it is incredibly difficult to control a child’s environment and avoid exposure to common substances. 

What are some signs my child might have allergies?

Knowing what to look for is a great way to determine when to seek treatment for a child’s allergies. Some of the indications of an allergic reaction include:

• Skin rash
• Itching or stinging eyes
• Difficulty breathing
• Upset stomach
• Hives
• Sneezing or coughing
• Runny nose

Seasonal allergies are tied to the pollen and other plant substances produced as the seasons change. 

All children will experience some of these issues at one point or another. However, when symptoms are severe or occur only after exposure to specific substances, it may be time to seek testing and treatment for childhood allergies. 

How are allergies treated?

Allergy testing offers the chance to determine which specific allergens are creating allergic reactions. The testing process is simple and involves placing a diluted version of various allergens onto your child’s skin and then checking to see if minor swelling or redness develops. 

Once your child’s pediatric care team understands which substances trigger reactions, treatment options include medications and trigger avoidance efforts. Immunotherapy is also an option and works by exposing a child to very minimal volumes of known allergens, allowing their immune system to develop a tolerance over time. 

If you have additional questions or concerns about childhood allergies, visit Valencia Health Pediatric Urgent Care for a consultation.