Environmental Allergies in Children

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If your child sneezes a lot or often has itchy, watery eyes or a runny nose, he or she may be allergic to something in the environment, such as pet fur, dust mites or pollen. Allergic reactions occur when your child’s immune system responds to elements in the environment (called allergens) as if they were harmful. This immune system reaction is what causes the actual allergy symptoms.

Allergic reactions range from mild to severe. Although not common, a child may have a sudden, life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention because it can be fatal.

Environmental Allergy Symptoms in Children

Tree and plant pollen, animal fur, dust mites and mold can all cause your child to have allergic reactions. Symptoms may include:

  • Head
    • Itchy, watery, red or swollen eyes
    • Itchy, runny or congested nose
    • Swollen and/or itchy lips, tongue or throat
    • Sore throat
    • Sneezing
    • Congested ear
    • Postnasal drip
    • Headache
  • Lungs
    • Difficulty breathing
    • Coughing, with possible mucus
    • Wheezing
    • Chest tightness
  • Skin
    • Hives
    • Dry, cracked, or broken skin
  • Fatigue
  • Restlessness or irritability

Diagnosis & Treatment

If you think your child has allergies, we may conduct allergy assessments, which may include the following tests:

  • Skin prick test
  • Blood tests
  • Breathing tests

Over-the-counter medications may relieve your child’s symptoms. Some of the other treatments we offer include:

  • Allergy shots
  • Drug desensitization
  • Immunotherapy