An allergic reaction occurs when the immune system overreacts to substances that are harmless to most people. Allergies range in severity from bothersome to life-threatening, and if your child sufferers from allergies, treatment can help them live well again.
Furthermore, as we’ll explain later, your child may grow out of their allergies. In this blog, our providers at Pediatric Practitioners of Oklahoma in Claremore, Oklahoma, explain more about what allergies are, why some children can have a higher risk for allergies, what the chances are that your child may grow out of them, and what the treatment options are.
As mentioned, an allergic reaction occurs when the immune system overreacts to substances — called allergens — that are not harmful to most people. Common allergens include dust, insects, pollen, certain foods, and certain ingredients found in medications.
An allergic reaction can cause a variety of symptoms, including the following:
In rare cases, a person can suffer anaphylaxis, in which their body enters a state of shock when coming into contact with an allergen. Their blood pressure can drop, and they can have difficulty breathing. Anaphylaxis can be deadly if it’s not treated right away with an epinephrine shot.
There are many reasons why certain children can have a higher risk of experiencing allergic reactions. One reason is a child may grow up in a family that has a history of suffering from allergies.
Another reason a child may be more susceptible to allergies is if they grow up in an environment in which they don’t have much exposure to germs. This view is called the “hygiene hypothesis,” and in these cases, their immune system may not be able to tell the difference between germs and harmless substances.
Exposure to environmental pollutants is another factor that could explain the rise in allergies. These pollutants can include pesticides in food, diesel exhaust particles, plastics, and synthetic perfumes and detergents.
When it comes to children outgrowing allergies, this is a possibility. It often depends on what the child is allergic to. About 80% of children who are allergic to wheat, eggs, and milk outgrow their condition by age 16. However, kids who are allergic to nuts, shellfish, or other types of fish are often allergic for a lifetime.
However, if your child has allergies, you don’t have to wait until they get older to see if they outgrow their condition. You can help them get relief right now by bringing them to our providers at Pediatric Practitioners of Oklahoma.
At Pediatric Practitioners of Oklahoma, our providers are very familiar with childhood allergies. First, we’ll perform a thorough evaluation and pinpoint what your child is allergic to. Then, we’ll develop a treatment plan to help them get well.
Your child’s treatment plan may include taking medications, such as antihistamines or nasal sprays, and making lifestyle changes to avoid coming in contact with allergens. If your child’s allergies are severe, we can refer them to an allergist so they can get specialized care.
To get the help your child needs for their allergies, call 918-283-4660 or book an appointment online with Pediatric Practitioners of Oklahoma today.
