Allergic Reactions - Neonatal Disorders

What Are Allergic Reactions?

Allergic reactions in children occur when the immune system overreacts to a usually harmless substance called an allergen. These substances can include foods, pollen, animal dander, insect stings, or medications. The immune system's response can range from mild symptoms like sneezing and itching to severe reactions like anaphylaxis.

Common Allergens

Some of the most common allergens that can affect children include:

Foods such as peanuts, tree nuts, milk, and eggs
Pollen from trees, grass, and weeds
Animal dander from pets like cats and dogs
Insect stings from bees, wasps, and ants
Medications such as antibiotics and aspirin

Symptoms of Allergic Reactions

Symptoms of allergic reactions in children can vary widely but commonly include:

Runny or stuffy nose
Itchy, watery eyes
Hives or skin rashes
Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat
Difficulty breathing or wheezing
Abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting
Anaphylaxis - a severe, life-threatening reaction

Diagnosis

Diagnosing an allergy typically involves a combination of a medical history, physical examination, and specific tests. Common tests include:

Skin prick tests - small amounts of potential allergens are introduced into the skin
Blood tests - measure the level of specific antibodies
Elimination diets - removing suspected allergens from the diet

Treatment

The primary treatment for allergies is avoidance of known allergens. However, other treatments may include:

Antihistamines - to relieve mild symptoms like itching and sneezing
Corticosteroids - to reduce inflammation
Epinephrine auto-injectors - for emergency treatment of anaphylaxis
Immunotherapy - allergy shots or oral tablets to gradually desensitize the immune system

Management and Prevention

Managing and preventing allergic reactions involves several strategies:

Identifying and avoiding known allergens
Using allergy-proof bedding and air filters
Teaching children to read food labels and recognize allergens
Having an Emergency Action Plan in place for severe reactions

When to Seek Medical Help

It's crucial to seek medical attention if a child experiences severe symptoms such as:

Difficulty breathing or wheezing
Swelling of the face, lips, or throat
Severe abdominal pain or vomiting
Signs of anaphylactic shock like dizziness or loss of consciousness