5 Most Common Allergies for Kids

Roughly one in every 13 children has food allergies — and many more have allergies to dust, mites, pollen, and other common allergy triggers. Allergic reactions happen when your immune system overreacts to a substance that you eat, breathe, or simply touch. 

At Pediatric Care of Four Corners in Davenport, Florida, we encourage parents to be aware of common allergies and their symptoms so you know when to seek medical care in the event that your child develops an allergic reaction. 

Children and allergies: What are the symptoms? 

If you think your child might have allergies, you may be tempted to give them over-the-counter medication, but you should talk to your doctor first. If you notice the following symptoms, consider scheduling an appointment for allergy testing: 

1. Sneezing frequently
2. Coughing
3. Eye-rubbing, or watery eyes
4. Sore throat
5. Runny nose
6. Hives
7. Wheezing 

If your child seems to be having trouble breathing, seek medical care immediately.

5 most common allergies for kids

Although children can be allergic to many substances, food allergies constitute four of the five most common allergies in children.

1. Peanuts

It’s likely you already have an idea that many children are allergic to peanuts if you have a school-aged child. Most schools don’t allow peanut butter sandwiches because so many children have this allergy. About 4 million children in the United States have a food allergy, and peanuts are a common allergy.

If you think it’s possible your child has a food allergy, keep a food diary to track what your child eats, when, and whether they have any type of reaction. Bring your food dairy to your appointment, so we can help you pinpoint the cause, get appropriate treatment, and help you learn to manage your child’s allergies. 

2. Eggs

Egg whites, egg yolks, or both can cause allergic reactions in some children. Working with the experts at Pediatric Care of Four Corners, you can design a diet that’s safe for your child even if they’re allergic to eggs. They may even be able to eat eggs used in baked goods that have reached a certain temperature.

However, it’s crucial to have a firm understanding of your child’s allergy. That’s why it’s so important to work with a specialist who can diagnose and treat allergies in children.

3. Milk

If your child consumes cow’s milk, there’s some likelihood that it could be the culprit. Sometimes the signs of a milk allergy are difficult to spot — they include colic, irregular bowel movements, and possibly even poor growth.

4. Shellfish

Shellfish allergies require immediate medical attention because they can be severe and life-threatening. If your child has a known shellfish allergy, your doctor may prescribe an epinephrine auto-injector to keep with you at all times in case your child is exposed and has a reaction.

5. Insect bites 

For most people, an insect bite is an annoyance for a few days, but for children who are allergic, an insect bite may become red, inflamed, and much larger than usual. Left untreated, the area may become blotchy or get hard. Your child may need a topical treatment to prevent infection.

Allergy testing for your child

We do in-office allergy skin tests at Pediatric Care of Four Corners, and we can help you understand the options for learning about food allergies, as well. If you have a family history of allergies, or you’ve noticed any symptoms that you think could be caused by allergies, schedule an appointment. We’re happy to answer your questions.