Patient Resources

Commonwealth Pediatrics Patient Resources

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Information About Allergies in Children

Does your child suffer from allergies? Identifying and managing these allergies early can help ensure a healthy and comfortable childhood. Find out what might be causing them and how you can help your child find relief below.

Allergy Symptoms In Children

Allergy symptoms in children can be severe, such as a runny nose or sneezing, or subtle, such as fatigue and irritability and behavioral changes. Your child may have allergies if you notice any of the following symptoms:

  • Frequent sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose and nasal congestion

  • Itchy, red and watery eyes

  • Coughing and wheezing

  • Skin reactions such as eczema or hives

  • Stomachache, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting

  • A feeling of fullness or congestion in the ears

  • A sore or scratchy throat from postnasal drip

  • Swelling and rash

Common Allergens

An allergen is a substance that triggers an allergic reaction in children who are sensitive to it. When a person with allergies comes into contact with an allergen, their immune system reacts, leading to various symptoms and discomfort. Allergens include:

  • Dust mites

  • Pollen from trees, grasses and weeds

  • Pet dander

  • Mold spores

  • Allergenic foods like peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, wheat, soy, fish and shellfish 

  • Insect stings

  • Certain medications, such as antibiotics

  • Latex

  • Chemicals found in detergents, cleaning products or cosmetics

  • Certain metals, such as nickel

  • Airborne irritants, such as smoke

Managing Your Child’s Allergy Symptoms

You will work with your pediatrician at Commonwealth Pediatrics to identify the specific allergens that trigger your child’s symptoms. Once those allergens have been identified, take steps to minimize your child’s exposure to allergens. For example, if your child is allergic to pollen, keep windows closed during high pollen seasons, use air purifiers and limit outdoor activities during peak pollen times. If your child has food allergies, carefully read food labels and educate your child’s school and caregivers about the allergen. If your child is allergic to dust mites, wash linens and bedding every couple of weeks in hot water.

Medications For Allergies

Depending on the severity of your child’s allergies, we may recommend over-the-counter or prescription medications. Common allergy medications include:

  • Antihistamines for sneezing, runny nose and itching

  • Decongestants and nose sprays for nasal congestion

  • Nasal corticosteroids for chronic nasal inflammation

  • Immunotherapy, or allergy shots, which involves gradually exposing the child too small amounts of the allergen to build up their tolerance over time

Common Asthma Triggers In Children

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that can be triggered or worsened by various factors. Identifying and managing asthma triggers in children is essential for maintaining good asthma control and preventing flare-ups. Our pediatricians at Commonwealth Pediatrics can help to identify and manage asthma triggers specific to your child. Common triggers include:

  • Allergens

  • Respiratory infections

  • Air pollution

  • Tobacco smoke

  • Exercise

Managing Eczema

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition characterized by dry, itchy and inflamed skin. Managing eczema in children involves a combination of skin care practices, lifestyle adjustments and medical treatments. Here are some strategies for managing your child’s condition:

  • Oral antihistamines to help relieve itching

  • Topical corticosteroid creams, in low doses

  • Non-steroidal creams

  • Avoid your child’s triggers

  • Dress your child in soft, breathable clothing

  • Trim nails to help prevent scratching

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Ready For Quality Pediatric Care?

High-quality pediatric services are just a click away! The Commonwealth Pediatrics team is dedicated to providing families with compassionate, patient-focused care you can trust. We put our patients first, and that starts before you ever set foot in our office. If you’re ready to schedule an appointment with us, fill out our online appointment request form.