Allergies are a tricky thing to look out for or keep in mind in social settings. Whether it be birthday parties, sports games, or just school events, allergies in kids are important to keep track of.
In situations where foods are shared and close contact is possible, knowing what allergies to look out for can help save a child’s life. Read on, and we’ll walk you through what you need to know.
You may have thought food allergies are the most common type of child allergies. But most allergens can be found in the air, making it difficult to predict when a child might have an allergic reaction.
Pollen is a common allergen that affects both children and adults across the country. Seasonal allergies are usually at their worst throughout the spring but can carry into the summer and fall seasons too.
Pollen symptoms are usually mild but persistent. It can affect a child’s ability to breathe properly, therefore affecting their participation in sports or outdoor activities.
It is also important to know the difference between allergies and asthma. Asthma attacks are chronic and are born in the lungs.
Unfortunately, some children can also be allergic to beloved pets and animals. The usual allergen is pet dander, and it can flare up as a result of touching or petting an animal.
Homes with carpet also make symptoms worse, as pet hair is trapped or undetected within the carpet. In other cases, children might be allergic to a pet’s saliva. Symptoms can include a mild or severe rash, hives, or irritation in the eyes.
Aside from pets, other animals like bees and snakes that sting or bite can cause allergic reactions.
If your child has been stung and you suspect a severe allergic reaction, you should ensure you can head somewhere where your child can get treated immediately.
Certain kinds of foods have very common allergic reactions in kids. Nuts such as peanuts, almonds, and even tree nuts are responsible for causing some unpleasant symptoms.
Food allergies are important to know about because so many baked goods and treats are made with oils that are processed with nuts.
Exposure to any of these nuts can result in rashes and itchy throat. Children with severe allergies to nuts can suffer from stomach pain and vomiting.
Other common food allergies are shellfish, which are mollusks or crustaceans like crab and shrimp. These are important to know about when serving delicacies like sushi or crab cakes.
Milk is also a common allergen and one that is found in many foods. Though milk allergy symptoms might be less severe in some cases, children can suffer from bad stomach aches, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Children may not know what ingredients or animals can make them sick, so it is important to know about different kinds of allergies in kids.
The more you know, the more you can avoid exposing kids where such allergens might be present. Give us a call right away if you suspect your child is having an allergic reaction.