What are the 3 most common allergic reactions in kids? KidsStreet Urgent Care is here to fill you in and help you understand the warning signs of a reaction.
Respiratory Reactions
Do you notice that your child gets sniffly, stuffy, or has a runny nose in some areas or during certain seasons? They may be having a respiratory allergic reaction. This simply means your child may be allergic to something in the air. Airborne allergens include:
- Pollen
- Mold spores
- Dust mites
- Pet hair
When your child is experiencing a respiratory allergic reaction, they may have the following symptoms:
- Runny nose
- Congestion
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Hay fever
- Watery eyes
Children allergic to airborne entities may experience reactions more often than those with other allergies. You can combat these symptoms by treating them with antihistamines such as children’s Benadryl or Zyrtec.
Respiratory allergic reactions are generally not severe enough to warrant a trip to the emergency room. At KidsStreet Urgent Care, we offer treatment of mild allergic reactions in our pediatric urgent care services.
Skin Reactions
Some kids have allergies to chemicals that can cause allergy symptoms on the skin. Allergens that can cause allergic reactions on the skin include:
- Laundry detergents
- Pet hair
- Fragrances (cosmetics, deodorants, hair products, etc.)
- Nickel (jewelry, zippers, buttons, etc.)
- Household cleaning products
- Poison ivy and poison sumac
- Latex (found in balloons, gloves, etc.)
Allergic reactions on the skin are usually not severe but can be painful and uncomfortable. Symptoms of skin reactions include:
- Bumps on the skin
- Rashes
- Eczema
- Dryness or cracking of the skin
- Scaly skin
- Blisters
- Redness
- Swelling
- Burning
If you believe your child is allergic to some form of chemical, it is best that you avoid them if possible. You will see a pattern if they are repeatedly exposed and reacting to it, which can help you determine the allergen. You can also get blood or skin tests with a specialist to dial in on your child’s allergy.
Dietary Reactions
Children who are allergic to certain foods may experience mild or severe reactions. For this reason, you must know if your child has a food allergy or food intolerance so you can avoid them. In some cases, allergic reactions to food can be life-threatening. Common food allergens include:
- Peanuts, tree nuts
- Fish
- Milk
- Eggs
- Soy
- Wheat
Food allergies in children can have a few adverse reactions. The most typical reactions that food allergens cause include:
- Stomach and abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Swelling of the mouth, tongue, or lips
- Difficulty breathing
- Anaphylaxis
If you believe your child is having a severe allergic reaction, call 911 immediately.
Turn To KidsStreet Urgent Care
Is your child having a mild allergic reaction? KidsStreet is here to help! To visit one of our clinics, register online. Then, you can wait from your home or car until we’re ready to see you. Then, we’ll text you when it’s time to head to the clinic.
Walk-ins are always welcome, but please be aware that registering online reduces in-clinic wait times.