Childhood Allergies: Symptoms and Treatments

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Childhood Allergies: Symptoms and Treatments

Childhood allergy is an exaggerated reaction by the immune system in response to certain foreign substances. These foreign objects may not be really harmful thus it is called an exaggerated response. In an attempt to protect the body, the immune system produce antibodies called immunoglobulin that causes the mast cells and allergy cells to release chemicals, including histamine resulting in allergic reactions. In most people, allergies appear during infancy and childhood. Some allergies can be outgrown while some lasts for a lifetime. It is best to consult an allergy specialist so that the source can be easily avoided and the symptoms treated. When avoidance measures fail or impossible, there are also numerous medications that can help in treating your child’s symptoms.

Causes
There are numerous causes of children’s allergies. Here are some of the common allergens that can trigger allergy symptoms:

Pollen - these are fine, reproductive pollen found in plants that travels easily through the air. Several examples are tree pollen such as oak, elm, and birch. Pollens from Bermuda grass and orchard grass can also cause allergies.
Mold spores - These pesky problems are found almost everywhere like in soil, vegetation, attics, basements, carpets and others. Mold spores also travel by air thus it is one of the prevalent causes of allergies.
Dust mites - These tiny creatures can also cause allergies. It is commonly found in bed linens and sofa. Dust mite allergies usually peak in July and August, when the dust mite population is high due to a warmer climate.
Pet dander - These allergens are the dead skin that warm-blooded animals such as dogs and cats shed. Pet dander can be found eve...

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...ne and phenylephrine. It works well for occasional and as-needed use since side effects such as insomnia, headaches, and rapid heart rate can be experienced with long-term use.
Leukotriene Blockers - Montelukast was originally developed for asthma but is then approved for treatment in allergic rhinitis for children as young as six months old. It is found beneficial for children with mild asthma and allergies. It must be taken daily and it takes a few days before effects can be seen. Mild side effects include fatigue, abdominal pains, and headaches.
Allergy Shots - Allergy shots or immunotherapy are particularly helpful in childhood allergies. This is not typically considered for children under five years of age due to maturity and cooperativeness of the child. Several studies show that allergy shots can help in asthma prevention up to three years after immunization.

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