Allergies 

When a child has an allergy to something, that substance, known as an allergen, triggers the immune system into releasing antibodies called immunoglobulin E. These cause the body to release histamines which are responsible for the symptoms.



Children can be allergic to anything but some of the most common allergens are pollen, dust, pets, foods such as peanuts and dairy products, latex and antibiotics such as penicillin.



Contact with an allergen can bring on an asthma attack, diarrhea, nausea, rashes, runny or stuffy nose and eczema but every parent’s worst fear is an anaphylactic reaction, which can even result in death.

Allergies should be taken seriously at all times.  Parents must teach children about allergies and the seriousness of allergies.



Getting Help For Allergies
Your child's doctor can assist you in getting help with your child allergies.  However some Natural Health Clinics offer allergy testing and treatment that may also be help with your child's allergies.



Anaphylaxis
This is without doubt the most worrying type of allergic reaction. Once a person begins to experience anaphylaxis, they need medical treatment immediately, or the condition is likely to prove fatal. The effects of anaphylactic shock can come on rapidly and affect the whole body. The person will experience a sudden drop in blood pressure and a severe narrowing of the airways, restricting their breathing.



What if your Child has an Allergy? -
If you think your child might have an allergy, start keeping a diary, noting the time and place of any reactions.  Note what they eat, what they are wearing, what they play with and where they roll around. 



After about a week or two depending on the occurrences of the reaction, discuss your findings with your child’s doctor so that he can establish if your child has an allergy and the causes of the allergy.  



Do not dabble with diagnosis, and definitely do not start administering over-the-counter drugs – always get your child checked out by the doctor.

Remember that every child and every allergy is different so do not play the guessing game.
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Pollen Allergies and Children  

A pollen allergy is also known as hay fever.   The histamines produced during an allergic reaction irritate the upper respiratory passages, making them swell and causing symptoms such as sneezing and a runny nose.   To help avoid symptoms of hay fever children should.​have a bath and wash their hair after playing outside and they should be kept inside when you mow the lawn or when the pollen count is high.



Dust Allergies and Children
It is actually dust mite droppings that are the potential allergen. Look out for symptoms, such as a runny or blocked nose, or watery eyes and try adapting your home to see if minimising dust reduces the problem. You would need to wash sheets often in hot water and dust wood work and floors with a damp cloth.  Avoid carpets and curtains, both of which hold dust.



Pet Allergies and Children
Children love their pets. Of course, the best way to control allergic reactions is to avoid the allergen and the allergen that causes pet allergies can hang around in your house for years so it is wise to avoid pets where there are children with allergies.



Latex Allergies and Children

Keep a close eye on your child’s toys.  Are they getting rashes or a runny nose after playing with a particular doll or truck?  If you suspect a latex allergy, take particular care around balloons, art materials and even stickers. 

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Make sure teachers are aware that stickers are a no-no for your child. As odd as it might sound, you’ll need to think about what your child is eating too. Bananas, apples and other fruits that may have had a sticker on their skin should be avoided.