Your child’s body is still developing, so as a parent, you’re used to changes happening constantly. Allergies in children are no exception. As your child grows, allergy symptoms that seemed mild at first may intensify over time. How can you know if it’s normal development or if the allergies are actually getting worse?
Allergies in Children
Allergies in children are common: over 30% of children have an allergy, making it one of the most common chronic diseases among children. Allergic reactions can impact your child’s quality of life, affecting play, school and socializing.
Common Causes
- Pollen
- Insect bites or stings
- Pet or animal dander (hair and fur)
- Dust mites
- Mold
- Foods (peanuts, eggs, milk and milk products are the most common)
- Irritants such as cigarette smoke, perfume and car exhaust
Common Symptoms
- Sneezing and coughing
- Runny nose
- Congestion and stuffiness
- Itchy eyes
- Skin rashes or hives
- Difficulty breathing
- Stomach upset
- Fatigue
Natural Development of Allergies in Children
In a phenomenon known as the “allergic march,” allergy development tends to progress in a particular order as the child grows:
- Birth to 1 year: Skin irritation, such as hives or eczema
- 1-3 years: Food allergies emerge
- 4-6 years: Seasonal and environmental allergies emerge
- 5-7 years: Asthma emerges
Allergies triggered by outdoor allergens, such as pollen, typically don’t show up for a few years since children are only exposed to them for a few months every year. It takes time for the body to become sensitized. Indoor allergens, such as pet dander or dust, may take effect much earlier as children interact with those allergens on a daily basis and in close proximity.
Signs Your Child’s Allergies May Be Getting Worse
If your child’s allergies are getting worse, new symptoms may appear, or their existing symptoms might get more severe. These changes may be gradual, making them easy to overlook at first. Consider the list under “Common Symptoms” above. Have you observed any new symptoms in your child from that list? Has your child experienced one of them, but now that symptom is more intense? Does your child have another, more uncommon symptom or symptoms (e.g., trouble concentrating, irritability or insomnia) that might indicate a bigger issue?
If your child’s allergic symptoms are changing faster (i.e., on a monthly basis rather than on a yearly basis) and seem to operate outside the allergic march, that could be a sign that their allergies are worsening as the body is getting more aggressive in its immune response. Similarly, watch your child’s response to your usual treatment methods. If you’ve used a medication in the past that doesn’t seem like it’s as effective anymore, that could be another sign that their allergies are getting worse.
What to Do
Begin keeping a record of your child’s allergic symptoms. Note the severity of the symptoms and the conditions that triggered them. If you’re tracking a pollen allergy, make note of the pollen count that day. If you’re tracking a dust mite allergy, make note of the cleaning schedule. By staying attentive and informed, you can help manage your child’s allergy symptoms before they escalate.
Once you’ve got a bank of notes, it’s a good idea to visit an allergist with your child to discuss their allergy progression and potential treatments and medication. This will get your child back on their feet and on the playground, less encumbered by allergy symptoms. Call Albany ENT & Allergy Services today to learn more or schedule an appointment.