Allergies in Children: From Infant Eczema to Growth Management

The allergy march

Allergic disease in children often appears in a set order: eczema and food allergy in infancy, allergic rhinitis in the preschool years, and asthma later in some children. This is called the "allergy march". Children with a family history are at higher risk.

Early signs

Repeated eczema, frequent spitting up of milk with streaks of blood, repeated "colds" that do not clear up along with an itchy nose and sneezing, and night-time cough or wheeze — all of these are worth assessing at a paediatric or allergy department, rather than being put down to a "weak constitution".

Key points for management

• Do not cut out foods without good reason: any food avoidance needs a basis, or it can affect growth and development
• Monitor height and weight regularly; the growth curve is an important indicator of nutrition and disease control
• Children receiving proper treatment can exercise, attend school and travel as normal

Outlook

In some children, allergy symptoms change or ease as they grow, but rhinitis and asthma may persist. Proper management and regular follow-up are more reliable than "waiting for them to grow out of it".

This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Please follow your doctor's instructions.