Did you know that environmental allergies like pollen are on the rise? Childhood allergies are also becoming more common, but with the right knowledge, you can help your kids thrive in Canada despite these challenges.
This guide covers everything you need to know about childhood allergies that may develop after you move to Canada — spotting early signs and creating an allergy management plan that allows your family to enjoy life safely. So, kids can enjoy every free and discounted experience available to you on Canoo! With you taking a million photos of them on the way.
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Understanding Childhood Allergies: The Basics
What Are Allergies?
Allergies occur when the immune system identifies a harmless substance as a threat. Common allergens include food allergens (e.g. peanuts, dairy, eggs, seafood), environmental allergens (e.g. pollen, dust mites, pet dander), and skin allergies (e.g. eczema, contact dermatitis).
Why Are Childhood Allergies Increasing?
Experts believe factors like hygiene, pollution, and dietary changes may contribute to the rise in allergies.
The hygiene hypothesis suggests that cleaner environments limit early exposure to microbes, leading to a reactive immune system. Increased air pollution and climate change have also worsened allergy symptoms by irritating our respiratory systems and extending pollen seasons. Additionally, diets may disrupt the gut, which plays a key role in immune regulation. Read more about the study on childhood allergy development as a result of gut health here.
Allergies Versus Sensitivities Versus Intolerances
Not all reactions to food or environmental triggers are allergies. It’s important to know the difference. Allergies involve the immune system and can cause severe reactions like anaphylaxis. Sensitivities cause discomfort but don’t trigger an immune response. Intolerances like lactose intolerance affect digestion but are not life-threatening.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Help
If your child experiences difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips or tongue, or a sudden drop in blood pressure, seek emergency medical attention immediately. These could be signs of anaphylaxis.
Environmental Allergies: From Pollen to Pets
Environmental allergies can significantly impact children throughout the year. Canada’s diverse climate brings different allergy triggers with each season. Whether it’s airborne pollen in the warmer months or indoor allergens in winter, understanding these patterns can help parents manage symptoms effectively.
Seasonal Allergies in Canada
Spring & Summer: Tree and Grass Pollen
As temperatures rise, trees and grasses release pollen into the air, triggering allergic reactions in sensitive children.
Fall: Ragweed Pollen
Ragweed is one of the most common fall allergens, affecting children from late August to October.
Winter: Indoor Allergens
Cold Canadian winters mean children spend more time indoors, increasing exposure to household allergens. Dust mites thrive in warm, humid environments such as bedding, carpets, and upholstered furniture. Pet dander (tiny flakes of skin shed by cats and dogs) can linger in homes for months, even after a pet is no longer present. Mould can grow in damp areas of the home.
Introducing Reactine: Relief for Allergy Sufferers
For seasonal and environmental allergies, Reactine provides fast and long-lasting relief, allowing kids to enjoy all activities without sneezing or itching.
When to See a Doctor
If allergies impact your child’s daily life (frequent rashes, breathing issues, or stomach pain), consult a pediatrician or allergist.
Types of Allergy Tests and How to Prepare
Doctors may use several testing methods: a skin prick test (small allergen extracts placed on the skin), a blood test (measures allergic reactions in the immune system), or an elimination diet (removing suspected foods and reintroducing them).
To prepare your child, explain the test in simple terms, bring a comfort item if they’re nervous, and avoid antihistamines before testing because doing so will interfere with the results.
Read more about allergy tests here.
Creating an Effective Allergy Management Plan
Working with Schools & Caregivers
When working with schools and caregivers, provide an allergy action plan with clear instructions and ensure staff know how to use an EpiPen if needed. This easy injection tool instantly acts to pause anaphylaxis reactions. It’s also important to teach kids to advocate for themselves, such as asking about ingredients in foods they don’t recognize.
Building Resilience
It is possible to encourage normal activities while taking necessary precautions. Educate friends and family to create a supportive environment, and help your child find safe alternatives to common threats.
Managing childhood allergies can feel overwhelming, but with the right knowledge and an action plan, your child can thrive.
Answering Your Top Questions About Kids’ Allergies
Can my child outgrow their allergies? Some children outgrow allergies, while others, like peanut allergies, are more likely to stay with them.
How do I differentiate between a cold and allergies? Colds typically involve fever and thick mucus, lasting 1-2 weeks. Allergies produce clear mucus and itchy eyes and can persist for weeks or months.
What should I do if my child has an allergic reaction at school? Prepare before an emergency can even happen. Ensure the school has an EpiPen, an emergency action plan, and a designated staff member trained in allergy response.
What’s the difference between an EpiPen and antihistamines? An EpiPen is used for severe, life-threatening reactions, while antihistamines are used for mild allergic reactions like hives or itchy eyes.
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