Q What is an “Allergy”?
A: Allergy is a chronic clinical condition involving an abnormal immune reaction to an ordinarily harmless allergen, commonly mediated by IgE production.
Q Does it affect children?
A: Yes, it affects children. An estimated 20-30% of the Indian population suffers from at least one or the other form of allergy.
Q What are the common symptoms?
A: Allergy can manifest with various symptoms of which following are the common ones-
- Skin rashes or hives, itchy
- Difficulty breathing / breathlessness
- Sneezing, coughing, a runny nose or itchy eyes
- Stomach pain, bloating, vomiting, loose stools
- Behavioural Changes/irritability
- Anaphylaxis: One of the most severe reactions is anaphylaxis, which can be lifethreatening. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, rapid heartbeat, and a sudden drop in blood pressure. Immediate medical attention is critical in such cases.
Q What are the common triggers which can initiate the allergy?
A: A trigger or ‘the inciting agent’ can be anything in our indoor or outdoor environment or from the food items , itself , what we consume.
- Outdoors: pollens, insect bites or stings, seasonal allergies
- Indoors: pet or animal hair or fur, dust mites, moulds
- Irritants: cigarette smoke, perfume, car exhaust
- Foods: peanuts, eggs, shellfish, soy, wheat
Q When to seek help with allergy specialist?
A: If above symptoms are frequent, or hampering the day to day activity or quality of life of the child , do consult with a specialist.
Q Can we know the specific allergen triggering the allergic episodes in our child?
A: Yes. By careful History taking, blood tests , Skin prick tests we can identify the common allergens
Q Is there a solution to the problem?
A: Yes. By Allergen avoidance method, by using Allergen Immunotherapy, It can be controlled which allows the child to lead a quality life.
Dr. Shweta Kumari Singh
MD Pediatric, Fellowship in Neonatology(CMC)
Consultant – Pediatrician
