Allergies are common in children and occur when the immune system reacts to substances that are usually harmless. These can include foods, environmental triggers or everyday products. While many allergies are mild, some can cause more significant reactions that interfere with a child’s daily life. Highly recognised consultant paediatrician Dr Abraham Neduvamkunnil takes a detailed look at the types of allergies, their symptoms, and how they're treated, providing parents and carers with essential information to help support children with allergies effectively.
What are the most common allergies in children?
Children can develop allergies to a wide range of substances, but the most frequent include:
- Food allergies: Milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, soya, wheat, fish and shellfish.
- Environmental allergies: Pollen (hay fever), dust mites, mould and animal dander.
- Skin allergies: Reactions to soaps, detergents, or materials such as latex.
- Insect sting allergies: Bee or wasp stings can sometimes trigger significant reactions.
Some children may outgrow their allergies, while others remain allergic into adulthood.
What symptoms should parents look for?
The signs of an allergic reaction vary depending on the trigger and can include:
- Sneezing, runny nose or itchy eyes
- Skin reactions such as rashes, hives or eczema flare-ups
- Stomach pain, vomiting or diarrhoea after eating certain foods
- Swelling of the lips, tongue or throat
- Wheezing or difficulty breathing
Severe reactions, known as anaphylaxis, are medical emergencies and require immediate treatment with adrenaline (epinephrine).
How are childhood allergies diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a detailed medical history and physical examination. A specialist may recommend:
- Skin prick tests to check for immediate allergic responses
- Blood tests to measure antibodies linked to allergies
- Food elimination and challenge tests for suspected food allergies, carried out under medical supervision
Identifying the correct trigger is key to managing the allergy safely.
What treatments are available?
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the allergy. Common approaches include:
- Avoidance: Preventing contact with the allergen wherever possible.
- Medication: Antihistamines for mild reactions, and steroid creams for eczema or skin irritation.
- Emergency medication: Adrenaline auto-injectors (such as EpiPen®) for children at risk of anaphylaxis.
- Allergen immunotherapy: In selected cases, gradual exposure to allergens (such as pollen) under specialist guidance to reduce sensitivity.
How can families manage allergies day-to-day?
Parents and carers can take steps to reduce risk and support children, such as:
- Reading food labels carefully and informing schools about food allergies
- Keeping the home clean and dust-free to limit exposure to triggers
- Encouraging children to understand their allergies as they grow older
- Having an action plan in place for managing accidental exposures
When should you see a specialist?
A referral to a paediatric allergy specialist is recommended if reactions are severe, if the trigger is unclear, or if multiple allergies are suspected. Specialist input ensures safe diagnosis, access to tailored treatments and advice for long-term management.
With early recognition, careful avoidance and appropriate treatment, most children with allergies can lead full, healthy lives.
Worried about your child? Dr Abraham welcomes babies, children and young people from birth to 18 for private consultations at Spire Nottingham Hospital, Spire Leicester Hospital and online. Request an appointment or call 07306 438709.
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About the author
Dr Abraham Neduvamkunnil (Dr Abraham) is a Consultant Paediatrician with over 20 years’ experience, caring for babies, children and young people from birth to 18 at Spire Nottingham Hospital, Spire Leicester Hospital and online across the UK. Read more about Dr Abraham or book an appointment.