Allergies are the sixth leading cause of chronic disease in
the U.S. About one out of every five children suffers from allergies. Allergies
are not always taken seriously; some people consider them a nuisance, when in
fact they are a serious disorder, especially in children. More than 40 percent
of children with allergies limit their activities because of them. Allergies, if
improperly managed, can lead to fatigue, irritability, loss of concentration,
lost school days, hospitalization, and in some cases, death.
Symptoms in children can include runny noses, ear infections, eczema, chronic
sickness, and recurrent stomach aches. In infants, look for colic, formula
intolerance, frequent spitting up and low-grade fevers. Allergies can be
diagnosed by a visit to a doctor's office, where several types of test may be
administered. Treatment includes taking daily medications, avoiding or reducing
exposure to "triggers" that induce allergice symptoms, and, for children,
learning to deal with peer pressure.
The most common allergies are to certain types of foods, dust mites, mold and
mildew, tree and grass pollens, and animal dander. In schools, children may be
exposed to furry pets, mold, cigarette smoke from the teachers' lounge, grass
being mowed, and "trigger" foods such as peanut butter. Parents must work with
school administrators and teachers before the school year begins to reduce their
child's exposure to these allergens.