Allergies - Remedies & Prevention

The onset of winter heralds different types of allergies. The allergies generally affect the respiratory system.  There maybe runny nose, with the child having continuous watery discharge. In some cases, there maybe superadded bacterial infection and the discharge becomes yellow and pussy. This may lead to a blocked nose and the child has difficulty sleeping at night. There may be associated post nasal drip which may lead to night irritating cough. In severe cases, there maybe sinusitis. There maybe red eyes with a watery discharge. In other cases, there maybe bronchospasm. This leads to a dry hacking cough. The cough can occur anytime of the day, but especially at night. Sometimes even to the extent where the child cannot even sleep because of coughing. This may progress to increased respiratory rate and wheezing in some cases. The wheezing maybe quite severe and the child may develop asthmaticus breathing.

According to Dr. Mubina Agboatwalla – A Child Specialist in Karachi, this needs immediate medical intervention. The allergens maybe pollen, dry cold air, dust, pollution, pets even perfumes. It is rather difficult to know the immediate reason for the allergy. But it is always better to protect the child from allergens.

Skin allergies are other manifestations of allergies. They maybe in the form of rashes, which are generally red patches. The allergy maybe due to ingestion of some foods e.g. egg, fish etc. Preservatives in certain foods specially processed food or a severe allergic reaction to some drugs. Topical allergy maybe due to irritating clothes. Woolen or warm clothes or polyester in some cases. This is known as contact dermatitis. In severe cases, eczema develops. The important thing is prevention. Avoid exposure to the allergens. Keep the air clean and avoid allergens.