Most Common Sudden Onset Allergies in Children

The sniffles, a cough and a runny nose may not be the signs of the common cold in children but rather allergies. Children react more than adults to allergens because children's bodies and immune systems are still in development. This leaves children open to more opportunities for a sudden onset of allergies. Allergies are not always unavoidable, but they are treatable. Once they are identified, allergies are easy to prevent and treat.

Eczema

• Eczema is common in children under 2. Babies and young children alike can have eczema typically on the face, arms or legs for no apparent reason. Eczema is an allergic reaction that appears on the skin as an itchy, red rash that spreads very quickly. It is not an allergic reaction to one thing in particular, just a condition that can be passed genetically. If a child has an allergy to something in particular, like milk, the eczema will act up when the child consumes milk.

Food Allergies

• The most common sudden onset of food allergies in children are peanuts, dairy products and tomatoes. It is recommended that when introducing these foods for the first time, to wait two days to observe your child. If there is no reaction, it is safe to assume she is not allergic to that particular food. If she is allergic, she will show signs such as hives, swelling of the face or tongue and excessive coughing and sneezing.

Airborne Allergies

• Airborne allergies can easily affect young children. Particles in the air such as pollen, dust and animal dander can cause an allergic reaction. If you notice signs of adverse reactions, you may want to have your child tested to decide what specifically is causing the reaction. Air filtration and a 24-hour children's antihistamine may provide relief and prevent a reaction.

Mold

• Mold is another sudden allergy in children. Mold often goes undetected in household walls and carpets. Mold is common in everyday life and lives in bedding, sofas and carpets. Children who are allergic to mold will show signs of an allergic reaction such as hives, sneezing or rashes every time he comes in contact with it. If your child has a mold allergy, you may need to buy special carpeting and an air purification system for your home.

Fragrance

• Children with allergies may show signs of a reaction to fragrances in soaps, shampoos and detergents. The first thing you should do if your child has a skin reaction is to stop using the soap on her skin and switch to a fragrance-free and dye-free detergent.