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How Can You Tell If Your Child Has Allergies?

Home > How Can You Tell If Your Child Has Allergies?
7th June 2023

Allergies are a common health concern that can affect people of all ages, including children. As a parent, it’s important to be able to recognise the signs and symptoms of allergies in your child. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how you can tell if your child has allergies, the common symptoms to look out for, and the steps you can take to get your child tested for allergies.

How to Know if Your Child Has Allergies

Allergies in children are often more common than you may think. You may be surprised to hear that 40% of all children in the UK are officially diagnosed with having an allergy. The most common of which are hay fever, asthma, eczema or a food-based allergy. 

When investigating whether or not your child has developed an intolerance, make sure you familiarise yourself with the common signs and symptoms of allergies. They are often categorised into five key groups.

1. Nasal Symptoms

  • Persistent or recurrent sneezing
  • Runny or congested nose
  • Itchy nose or frequent rubbing of the nose

2. Eye Symptoms

  • Red, itchy, or watery eyes
  • Swelling around the eyes
  • Sensitivity to light

3. Skin Symptoms

  • Itchy skin or rash
  • Hives (raised, red, and itchy bumps)
  • Eczema flare-ups

4. Respiratory Symptoms

  • Coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing
  • Chest tightness or shortness of breath
  • Recurrent respiratory infections or asthma exacerbations

5. Digestive Symptoms

  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Stomach Ache or cramps
  • Diarrhoea or constipation

Getting Your Child Tested for Allergies

If your child is suffering from one or more of the symptoms above, it might be worth getting your child tested for allergies. At Midland Health, we have a simple three-step process to help you get an accurate answer either way.

1. Book a Consultation

First, schedule an appointment with our paediatricians or allergy specialists. They will be able to carry out an in-depth discussion taking into account your child’s symptoms, medical history, and any family history of allergies.

 2. Allergy Testing Options

Next, based on your previous conversation, either of the two allergy testing options below will be selected.

  • Skin Prick Test: Small amounts of common allergens are placed on your child’s skin to observe any allergic reactions
  • Blood Test: Measures the presence of specific antibodies in your child’s blood to identify allergen triggers

3. Identifying Allergen Triggers

Once the tests are conducted, your healthcare provider will discuss the results and help identify specific allergens causing your child’s symptoms. You will receive information about the different allergy management options available to you and support throughout your decision-making process.

Managing Your Child’s Allergies

If your child has a positive allergy test, showing an intolerance, you will receive one or more of the following management methods.

Avoiding Allergens

  • Create an allergen-free environment at home by regularly cleaning and dusting.
  • Minimise exposure to common allergens such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and mould.

Medication

  • Over-the-counter antihistamines can help alleviate mild allergy symptoms.
  • Prescription medications may be necessary for more severe symptoms or specific allergies.
  • For some children, immunotherapy treatments can also be offered.

Allergy Action Plan

  • Work with your child’s healthcare provider to develop an allergy action plan detailing steps to manage and treat allergic reactions.

Education and Awareness

  • Educate your child about their allergies and teach them to recognise and avoid potential triggers.
  • Inform school staff and caregivers about your child’s allergies and necessary precautions.

Let Our Allergy Specialists Help

Recognising the signs and symptoms of allergies in your child is crucial for early detection and effective management. By understanding the common symptoms and taking the necessary steps to get your child tested for allergies, you can help ensure their well-being and quality of life. Remember to consult with healthcare professionals for accurate diagnosis, personalised treatment plans, and guidance on allergy management strategies. Book an appointment with our paediatric allergy specialists today.

FAQ

To test your child for allergies, you should consult with a paediatrician or an allergy specialist. They can recommend and perform one or more of the following tests:

  • Skin Prick Test: Small amounts of common allergens are applied to the skin, usually on the forearm or back, and the doctor observes for any allergic reactions.
  • Blood Test: A blood sample is taken to measure the presence of specific antibodies (IgE) in the blood, which can indicate allergen triggers.

Elimination Diet: Under the guidance of a healthcare professional, certain foods or substances are eliminated from your child’s diet to identify potential allergens.

There are three common ways to check for allergies:

  • Medical History and Symptom Assessment: Your child’s doctor will discuss their medical history and symptoms to identify potential allergens.
  • Skin Prick Test: Small amounts of allergens are applied to the skin to observe any allergic reactions.

Blood Test: A blood sample is taken to measure the presence of specific antibodies in the blood, indicating an allergic response to certain allergens.

Children can develop allergies at any age, but allergies often develop in early childhood. Some children may show signs of allergies as early as infancy, while others may develop allergies later in childhood or even during adolescence. It’s important to note that the specific age at which allergies develop can vary from child to child.

Distinguishing between allergies and colds can be challenging, but there are some key differences to consider:

  • Allergy Symptoms: Allergy symptoms often persist for weeks or months, whereas cold symptoms usually last for a shorter duration (up to two weeks). Allergies typically involve itching of the nose, eyes, or throat, whereas a cold may cause a sore throat or body aches.
  • Nasal Discharge: Allergies typically cause clear, watery nasal discharge, while a cold may result in thicker, coloured mucus.

Fever: Allergies do not typically cause a fever, whereas a cold may be accompanied by a low-grade fever.

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