Symptoms
Symptoms of allergies in children can vary depending on the type of allergy and the substance to which the child is allergic. Common symptoms include:
- Sneezing and a runny or stuffy nose
- Itchy and watery eyes
- Hives or rash on the skin
- Swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
- Coughing or wheezing
- Stomach pain, vomiting, or diarrhea (in cases of food allergies)
Symptoms can be mild or severe, and in some cases, can lead to a life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis.
Causes
The causes of allergies in children can be divided into two main categories: inherited and environmental.
Inherited causes refer to genetic factors that make a child more susceptible to developing allergies. Children with a family history of allergies, such as asthma or eczema, are more likely to develop allergies themselves.
Environmental causes refer to the substances that a child is exposed to, such as pollen, mold, pet dander, and certain foods. These substances can trigger an allergic reaction in a child who is genetically predisposed to allergies.