What exactly are allergies?

An allergy occurs when the immune system overreacts to an organism called allergen that is usually harmless to other people, such as pollen or peanuts. Because it perceives an allergen as a big threat, the immune system releases chemicals to protect the body. This is what causes allergic reactions.

What causes allergies?

There are many types of allergens. Airborne allergens include pollen from trees or grass, dust, mold spores, animal dander and insect parts (such as a cockroach's legs). Common food allergens include cow's milk, eggs, nuts, soy, wheat, shellfish and fish. Allergens can also be in the form of drugs like aspirin or antibiotics. There are also allergens that irritate the skin such as latex, plants, dyes, and chemicals. Insect-sting can cause allergic reactions, too.

Allergies are usually passed on by parents to their children. However, repeated heavy exposure to harmful substances can also lead to allergies. Sometimes, emotional stress can affect your child's immunity and makes him more predisposed to allergies.

How would I know if my child has allergies?

Symptoms of allergies vary, usually depending on what kind of allergen.

• Airborne allergens - asthma, sneezing, stuffy nose, plus itchy eyes, mouth and throat
• Food allergens – itchy, red or swollen skin, tummy ache, indigestion, stiffness of joints, pain, swelling, heartburn
• Drug allergens - itchy, red or swollen skin, stiffness of joints, pain, swelling
• Insect-sting allergens - itchy, red or swollen skin

If your child is showing symptoms, it's best to consult with your doctor immediately. You see, allergic reactions can be severe. For instance, anaphylaxis causes the throat to swell and the blood pressure to drop, leaving the victim with shortness of breath, nausea or vomiting. It may also lead to shock, and this could be fatal.

What should I do?

• Breastfeed your child and avoid giving him solid food until he is six months old. Your breast milk is hypoallergenic and contains antibodies that help protect your child. After introducing him to a food item, wait for three to five days before giving him a new one. This will help you see if he has allergic reactions to what he's eaten.
• The best way to prevent allergy attacks is to avoid allergens. If your child is allergic to airborne allergens, make sure your house is free of dust, dust mites, or animal dander. If your child is allergic to food allergens, make sure you give specific instructions to your cook, or to a waiter when dining out. If your child is allergic to drugs, inform your doctor when he's prescribing medicines.
• Ask your doctor before giving antihistamines to your child. Antihistamines relieve the symptoms of allergies. Your pediatrician or allergologist may also recommend steroids for more severe allergic reactions. He may also advise your child to undergo immunotherapy, where your child will be exposed to small amounts of an allergen for a period of time to allow your child's immunity to develop a stronger defense (similar to vaccinations).
• Talk to your child's school teacher or principal. Ensure that the faculty and staff know what to do should your child have a sudden allergy attack in school. Work out action plans and emergency plans.
• Since you can't be with your child at all times, consider creating a sticker, necklace or bracelet that states your child's allergies as well as emergency numbers to call. Have him wear it at all times just in case.

If your child has allergies, make sure his immunity foundation is up to the challenge. Give him a balanced diet, enough rest, ample exercise, and the right vitamins. You see, allergies can't be cured. Although some children outgrow their allergies, most remain sensitive to the allergens well into their adulthood. Good thing you can manage the symptoms.