Allergy & Immunology

A runny nose. Watery eyes. Sneezing.  Maybe your child has a cold – or maybe it's allergies.

Allergens are nearly everywhere in our environment, and they’re harmless to most people. But some kids react adversely to them. So it's important to know what to look for if you think your child may have allergies.

Children's immune systems are designed to protect them from unhealthy things like viruses and bacteria. In children with allergies, however, the immune system perceives relatively harmless things (certain allergens) to be threatening. This can cause the body to release chemicals that cause sneezing, itchy eyes, sore throat, coughing, headache, nasal drainage, and other symptoms.

Allergies tend to be passed from generation to generation. However, a child won't necessarily be allergic to the same things as his or her parents.

Some children react to allergens found outdoors (pollen, mold, etc.). In such cases, their symptoms will flare up when they are outside during certain times of the year. Others react to allergens found indoors (pet dander, dust, etc.). When a child has indoor allergies, they will exhibit symptoms year-round when they are exposed to the allergens that affect them.