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Childhood Allergy and Asthma

Allergies and asthma in children are very common, and are a leading cause of absenteeism from school. Their incidence has risen dramatically in the past 10 years.

This has given rise to a theory known as the "hygiene hypothesis" as a possible explanation for children's allergy. The hygiene hypothesis speculates that in western society, with the dramatic reduction in infectious diseases, one's immune system is shifted away from fighting infection, to an allergy producing mode.

Also, genetics play a strong role, and most children with allergies have at least one allergic parent. Childhood allergies may manifest as asthma, hay fever, food allergies, and sinus disease.

Allergic Rhinitis - Hay Fever

This is the usual form allergies will take in children; it results in symptoms related to the nose such as drainage, itchiness, sneezing and congestion. Some children are easily diagnosed by their long term sneezing, sniffling, snorting, snoring and mouth breathing due to nasal congestion. In many children allergy symptoms in the nose may give rise to sinus infections and asthma.

Children may follow a seasonal pattern with increased symptoms during the fall, winter, and spring. Others may have symptoms daily throughout the year due to molds, dust, or indoor pets.

Childhood allergy should be considered in any child who misses more than a few days of school or requires antibiotics more than twice a year for sinus infections.

Medications are available that can help dramatically. Prescription nasal sprays are the most effective.

Asthma

Childhood asthma is also on the rise, with allergy being a major contributing factor. Just as children's allergies cause swelling of the nose, they can also cause swelling inside the lungs. There is a buildup of mucous and a narrowing of the airways which then leads to coughing, wheezing and difficulty breathing. An early warning sign in children is difficulty with exercise and not being able to play sports without coughing.

Untreated or under-treated asthma may result in emergency room visits, hospitalization, and scarring in the airways. In rare cases severe asthma can be fatal.

Fortunately, preventative treatment with medications now available can reduce all of these complications. These medications are safe, convenient, and very effective. A lung function test that can be performed in most children older than age 4 helps to determine which medication is best suited for the individual child.

Food Allergies

Food allergies are on the rise and peanut allergy has doubled in children in the past 10 years. Egg, milk, and peanut are the most common food allergies in childhood. Allergic reactions can begin within minutes of eating the offending food, and may be severe, even life-threatening.

An accurate diagnosis of food allergy is most important and skin testing for foods can be performed in children at any age.

Avoidance of the offending food and having life saving adrenalin (EpiPen) available at all times is a must for food-allergic patients.

Sinus Disease

As allergies result in swelling of the nose, one's sinuses may also become blocked and swollen. Many children suffer from sinus disease due to untreated allergies. This may result in dental abnormalities, chronic cough (especially at night), poorly controlled asthma, and loss of the sense of smell. Prescription cortisone nose sprays are very helpful.

Allergy Testing

Allergy skin testing in children is quick, accurate, and very easily performed. The test results are ready in less than an hour and can help to determine the allergic factors responsible for a child's symptoms. Our nurses are skilled in working with children and helping through allergy testing.  Identifying the offending allergens is the first step in allergy control.