What Sort of Things Can Trigger Allergies?

Allergies are a major nuisance, and many parents struggle to manage them. Kids are often especially prone to allergies, including seasonal allergies, food allergies, and more. If your children are struggling with allergies and you live near San Ramon or Pleasanton, CA, contact Tri-Valley Pediatrics to speak with a pediatrician.

What Causes Allergies

Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to something. If a child is exposed to pollen, the body will often recognize it as a foreign invader. In some cases, the immune system goes overboard and reacts too strongly, resulting in an allergic reaction. The substance that causes the allergic reaction, say pollen, is called an allergen.

Sometimes the immune system will react to a foreign body that it shouldn’t react negatively to. For example, a specific food may not actually be a threat to your child. Regardless, the immune system may react to the food, say peanuts. While the peanuts themselves might not be harmful, the immune reaction can be exceptionally dangerous. In some cases, people may struggle simply to breathe owing to swelling and other issues caused by a reaction.

If you're struggling to manage your child's allergies and live near San Ramon or Pleasanton, CA, contact Tri-Valley Pediatrics.

What Sort of Things Can Trigger Allergies?

Unfortunately, just about anything can trigger an allergic reaction. Some triggers are more common than others. With respiratory allergies, some of the most common triggers include:

• Pet dander
• Pollen
• Smoke

Pollen often results in seasonal allergies. You or your child may not notice any issues until the flowers start to bloom in the fall or spring, spreading their pollen.

Food allergies are also common and can be very serious. The most common food allergies include:

• Eggs
• Nuts (including peanuts)
• Dairy products
• Fish and shellfish
• Wheat
• Soy

However, many people suffer from food allergies not related to the above. Besides stomach issues, food allergies can also cause respiratory problems and excessive swelling.

Fabrics are also a common cause of allergic reactions. Someone may be fine wearing cotton clothing but might react to polyester. This can result in skin rashes and other issues. Many substances, including colognes, specific plants (e.g. a pine tree), and soaps, can cause skin reactions and other allergic reactions.

Treating Allergies in Children

First, it’s important to identify allergens, which are the substances that cause reactions. This can often be done through an allergy skin test.

Once allergens are identified, it’s important to minimize contact with them, especially if the allergy is severe. This may include diet and lifestyle changes.

Medications can also help. Cetirizine, diphenhydramine, and other antihistamines can reduce allergic reactions. In dire situations, an EpiPen can often be used to control severe reactions so folks have time to seek emergency medical care.

Parents who live near San Ramon or Pleasanton, CA, and are struggling with allergies can dial (925) 460-8444 for Pleasanton or (925) 380-6230 in San Ramon to reach Tri-Valley Pediatrics.