There is nothing harder for any parent than to have to see a child suffer.
Allergies can be a torment to little ones, parents and siblings. Children’s allergies, when properly detected and treated, can be managed.
Allergy symptoms can present themselves in many varied forms. Causes of children’s allergies are more varied than the symptoms.
A parent diagnosing allergies is the first step to successfully managing the condition.
What do child allergy symptoms look like?
When self-diagnosing, allergy symptoms to watch for include runny noses, sneezing, itching, red spots or hives, respiratory problems and unexplained rashes. While all of these symptoms may be caused by other things, if they reoccur over time or have no other explanation, consider allergies as the cause.
Self-diagnosing allergies can be done through a simple process of elimination. All symptoms have a cause. Start by keeping written records of when symptoms are present, what was going on just before the symptom was seen and all food and drink intake at that time as well. Look for patterns. Food allergies are quickly spotted when using this method. If the symptom is a rash or skin discoloration, begin by checking commonly used products such as soaps, detergents, perfumes and the like. Once the offending product is isolated, remove it. Respiratory symptoms are often the hardest for a parent diagnosing allergies to trace to the source. Start by elimination of one suspected item at a time. Dust is the easiest to eliminate. Be sure to wash the walls and ceiling too. Use good filters when cleaning carpets to trap tiny particles. Consider such things as plants, pet hair, aerosol products, carpet fresheners, cleaning products and household pesticides.
Child allergy symptoms can range from the inconvenient to the life threatening. Once a child allergy has been diagnosed, or even is seriously suspected, seek a professional diagnosis and treatment immediately. Some allergies get more sensitive and present more serious symptoms as exposure is increased. A trained professional like the physicians at Asthma and Allergy Associates of Colorado Springs can provide the medications needed for such potentially life threatening allergic reactions as anaphylaxis. A parent diagnosing allergies is in a better position than a professional, at times, because the parent knows the child and the environment better. Professionals know the conditions and treatment options better. Working together will ensure the best treatment possible for children.
If you have noticed some odd health symptoms in your child lately and are worried they may have some type of allergy, contact Asthma and Allergy Associates today at www.aacos.com or give them a call at (719) 473-0872.