Chronic Allergies in Children

Millions of people suffer from chronic allergies. These allergies can begin in childhood and get worse with age. There is a bit of mystery surrounding what causes children's allergies but it is known there are genetic influences. Every child that suffers from chronic allergies may exhibit a variety of symptoms. Although chronic allergies can't be cured, there are many treatment options available.

Genetics

• Genetics play a role in who is susceptible to chronic allergies. There is a 33 percent chance of a child developing allergies if one parent is susceptible to allergies. This increases to 70 percent if both parents suffer from allergies. What specifically a child is allergic to is not determined by genetics. Even if a child does have a high risk of developing allergies, the predisposition alone is not generally enough to trigger an allergic reaction.

Symptoms

• Chronic allergy symptoms can vary from child to child. Some of the most common symptoms of allergies are itchy, red eyes. Children with allergies may suffer from frequent stuffy or runny noses. In many cases, children suffering from chronic allergies will appear fatigued. It is common to misinterpret these symptoms as a cold. If the symptoms are related to allergies, they will likely develop very quickly and the child will not have a fever. Other symptoms of chronic allergies include rashes, hives and a continuous cough.

Common Allergens

• Children can develop allergies to many things. While pollens are one of the most common types of allergens that affect children, these usually produce seasonal allergies. Some allergens can be particularly dangerous. Both bee stings and latex can produce allergic reactions that get worse with each exposure. Children suffering from chronic allergies are usually affected by things that are continuously in the air. Common allergens that may trigger chronic allergies are animal dander, dust, feathers and mold.

Treatment

• Different treatment options are available to manage the various symptoms that children may suffer from. Treatment frequently revolves around medications that have been designed to ease symptoms. Antihistamines are used to ease itching and redness. Decongestants can be prescribed to reduce any swelling within the nose in order to make it easier to breathe. Certain types of steroids can be used to reduce inflammation and congestion. In the most severe allergy cases, children can undergo immunotherapy injections, or allergy shots, which help to build up a tolerance to the specific allergens that trigger the symptoms.

Warning

• It is important to treat any allergy symptoms that a child may develop. Symptoms that are left untreated for too long can cause additional problems. Children suffering from chronic allergies can develop sinus and ear infections if their symptoms are left untreated. For children who suffer from asthma, untreated allergies can complicate this condition and make it far worse. Chronic allergies can also interfere with a child's development. Children with chronic allergies may struggle to sleep at night which can lead to difficulties in school.