As a Consultant Paediatrician with experience in allergies, Dr Abraham Neduvamkunil (known to his patients as Dr Abraham) regularly sees children with a range of allergic conditions - from mild to life-threatening. With the right testing, education, and manInagement, most allergic children can lead full and happy lives.

What are childhood allergies?

An allergy occurs when the body's immune system overreacts to something harmless, like a food, dust mite, pollen or pet. These substances are called allergens.

Common allergic conditions include:

• Food allergies - e.g. to milk, eggs, peanuts or wheat
• Hay fever (allergic rhinitis) - triggered by pollens
• Asthma - often triggered by allergens like dust, pollen or mould
• Eczema - may flare due to certain foods or environmental triggers
• Urticaria (hives) - itchy, raised skin rash
• Anaphylaxis - a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction

What are the signs of an allergy?

In children, allergy symptoms can vary based on the trigger:

• Sneezing, itchy eyes, runny nose (hay fever)
• Rashes, hives, eczema flare-ups
• Wheezing, cough, chest tightness
• Vomiting, diarrhoea, tummy pain after eating certain foods
• Swelling of lips or eyes
• Sudden collapse, breathing difficulties (anaphylaxis - call 999)

If your child has recurring or unexplained symptoms, particularly after certain foods or exposures, an allergy assessment is strongly advised.

How are allergies diagnosed?

At Dr Abraham's clinic, they take a detailed history and may perform:

• Skin prick tests - results in 15 minutes
• Specific allergy blood tests (IgE)
• Food elimination and reintroduction trials
• Challenge testing - only in specialist settings

Importantly, not all rashes or tummy upsets are allergies, and testing without a full clinical assessment may cause confusion or unnecessary food avoidance.

When to seek help

You should consider a specialist allergy review if your child:

• Has had a reaction to food or insect stings
• Has eczema that isn't responding to creams
• Has asthma or hay fever that worsens seasonally
• Has a family history of allergies or asthma
• Has experienced a sudden reaction with swelling or breathing problems

What can be done?

With a confirmed diagnosis, a personalised plan can be created, including:

• Allergen avoidance advice
• Allergy action plans for school or nursery
• Prescribing antihistamines or EpiPens
• Allergy education for parents and carers
• Desensitisation therapy (in select cases)

Final thoughts

Allergies can be worrying - but the right diagnosis and management can make an enormous difference. Whether your child has a rash, a runny nose, or something more serious, don't guess, let's investigate properly.

About the author:

Dr Abraham Neduvamkunnil is a Consultant Paediatrician at Spire Nottingham and Spire Leicester hospitals with specialist interest in childhood allergies. With 350+ five-star reviews, he provides expert allergy testing, education and support for children from birth to 18 years.
https:www.drabraham.org