Four facts you should know about allergies in children
Posted: 3rd March 2021 | Posted by Costa
Four facts you should know about allergies in children
With allergies on the rise, plenty of new parents will worry about their children. And there will always be a small subsection that tells you not to worry, it’s all overblown. People believe that because children can potentially outgrow allergies and because not all allergies are deadly, there’s no real cause for concern. But this couldn’t be further from the truth.
Allergies can seriously impact people’s lives and can even create lasting damage if untreated. Here are four facts about allergies in children that you should know.
Allergies are on the rise
Allergies are becoming more common. Children are more likely than ever to develop food allergies. Allergies being so common might be part of why people believe concerns are overblown, but there’s no reason to suggest this makes allergies less dangerous.
In fact, one in four with a food allergy, even a mild one, will experience a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening.
You don’t always grow out of them
While it’s possible to outgrow allergies, it’s not always the case. Teenagers needing hospital treatment for their allergies went up 65% over 5 years. This statistic highlights the tragic effects allergies can have on young people and why allergies need to be taken seriously.
Allergies can affect children’s quality of life
One study showed that children with hay fever symptoms received lower grades than their peers. Allergies can also affect children’s mental health. Children with food allergies may avoid socialising or food in the future to avoid feeling left out. Allergies can also affect physical health by making asthma and eczema worse.
Allergies can be life-threatening
In severe allergy cases, anaphylaxis can occur. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening allergic reaction. It’s characterised by the tightening of the throat, difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness, and other terrifying symptoms. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency and can be fatal if left untreated.
If you think your child has an allergy, don’t just shrug it off. Allergies can greatly impact your life, worsening existing conditions, affecting mental health, and can also be life-threatening. Allergies need to be addressed to ensure your child has the most comfortable time possible.
If you think your child has an allergy, book them in for a test. Register as a new patient here and book online today or call London Allergy and Immunology Centre 02031 433 449.