|  | Conditions Treatments | Allergies

Signs of Allergies in Toddlers

An allergy is a reaction in your toddler's body to the presence of a substance called an allergen. When your toddler comes in contact with an allergen, his body identifies it as an intruder and attacks it. This attack releases natural chemicals in the body, including histamines, which cause a range of allergy signs, or symptoms. Recognizing the different signs of allergies in toddlers allows you to improve your toddler's quality of life by identifying and treating allergies that your toddler may have.

  1. Mild Allergy Signs

    • Your toddler will most likely show mild signs of allergies first. Keep an eye on your child's skin and face for these signs. According to KidsHealth.org, mild signs of allergies that typically appear on your toddler's skin include itchiness, slight skin redness, slight swelling, and red bumps (hives), all of which may appear anywhere on your little one's body. Other mild, tell-tale signs of allergies in toddlers usually involve their faces and include a stuffy or runny nose, sneezing, and itchy or watery eyes. (See Reference 1: kidshealth.org.)

    Severe Allergy Signs

    • Mild signs of allergies can quickly escalate into severe, potentially life-threatening signs that involve your toddler's respiratory and digestive systems, as well as her face and skin. In addition to increased swelling of the face or mouth, your toddler may show various respiratory symptoms, including wheezing or difficulty swallowing, speaking and breathing, which may lead to dizziness or fainting. Severe digestive symptoms of allergies in toddlers include excessive abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

    Anaphylaxis

    • Although it occurs infrequently, serious signs of allergies in toddlers may quickly develop into a life-threatening condition known as anaphylaxis. If your toddler exhibits any severe signs of allergies accompanied by swelling of the throat, difficulty breathing, or sudden pulse changes, he may be experiencing anaphylactic shock. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention and treatment with epinephrine. If you think your toddler may be experiencing anaphylaxis, call 911 immediately and get her to the emergency room for medical treatment.

    Causes

    • A range of different allergens may cause your toddler's allergy signs. His exposure to allergens takes place in a variety of ways, including through inhalation, eating, injection (stings or medicine) and touch, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. (See Reference 2: www.aap.org.) Common causes of allergy symptoms include dust mites, pollen, mold, animal dander, chemicals, certain foods and venom from insect bites. In addition, the American Academy of Pediatrics states that your toddler has a greater chance of having allergy symptoms if you suffer from allergies yourself. (See Reference 2 again: www.aap.org.)

    Diagnosis and Treatment

    • If your toddler has signs of allergies, talk to your pediatrician about diagnosis and treatment. Your doctor will work with you to assess your toddler's allergy symptoms and develop an individualized treatment plan with follow-up care. Depending upon the results of testing, your doctor may be able to make a diagnosis and prescribe medication herself, or she may refer you and your toddler to an allergist for more specialized testing, such as a blood or skin test.

Allergies - Related Articles