Allergies in Children: Common Questions Answered

Q: Allergies in Children: Common Questions Answered

Hello： Allergic rhinitis and urticaria are both allergic diseases caused by an allergic constitution. <br>Urticaria is an allergic condition triggered by allergens, while lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease of unknown origin that affects multiple organs. <br>The only sim

Unclear?

Dear Dr.
Liang,
I apologize for taking up your valuable time amidst your busy schedule.
My daughter is currently seven years old and was diagnosed as an allergic child at two and a half years old through a blood test.
At that time, she was treated with medication and sprays, but she still experiences sneezing in the mornings.
Recently, she has developed red rashes on her skin, which were diagnosed by a doctor as urticaria (hives).
However, after taking medication, she had another outbreak within a few days (both episodes occurred at night).
Therefore, I would like to ask Dr.
Liang the following questions:
1.
Is there a connection between nasal allergies and urticaria?
2.
Can urticaria lead to lupus erythematosus? What is the difference between the two?
3.
My mother mentioned that she also frequently had urticaria when she was young.
Is this hereditary?
4.
How can we strengthen the immune system of an allergic child?
I sincerely apologize for asking so many questions, and I thank you in advance for your response.
Thank you.

Mei, 0~9 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/10/08

Dr. Liang Hongjian reply Pediatrics

Hello: Allergic rhinitis and urticaria are both allergic diseases caused by an allergic constitution.
Urticaria is an allergic condition triggered by allergens, while lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease of unknown origin that affects multiple organs.
The only similarity between the two is that they both involve issues with the body's immune system, but otherwise, they are quite different.
Wishing you health and happiness.

Miaoli Hospital, Pediatrics, Dr.
Liang Hong-Jian

Reply Date: 2004/10/08

More Info

Dear [Name],
Thank you for reaching out with your questions regarding your daughter's allergies and related concerns. Allergies in children can be complex, and it's important to address each aspect carefully. Let's go through your questions one by one.

1. Are nasal allergies and urticaria (hives) related?
Yes, nasal allergies and urticaria can be related. Allergic rhinitis (nasal allergies) occurs when the immune system overreacts to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander, leading to symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. Urticaria, or hives, is a skin reaction that can occur due to various triggers, including allergens. In some cases, the same allergens that cause nasal symptoms can also trigger hives. It’s essential to identify and manage these allergens effectively to reduce the frequency and severity of both conditions.

2. Can urticaria lead to lupus erythematosus? What is the difference between the two?
Urticaria itself does not cause lupus erythematosus. Lupus is an autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue, leading to inflammation and damage in various parts of the body. Urticaria is primarily a hypersensitivity reaction and is not autoimmune in nature. The symptoms of lupus can include a rash, joint pain, and fatigue, among others, while urticaria is characterized by raised, itchy welts on the skin. If there are concerns about lupus, particularly if there are systemic symptoms, it would be wise to consult a pediatric rheumatologist for further evaluation.

3. Is urticaria hereditary?
Yes, there can be a hereditary component to urticaria. If your mother experienced hives as a child, it is possible that your daughter may have a genetic predisposition to develop similar allergic reactions. Allergies and atopic conditions often run in families, so it is not uncommon for children to inherit a tendency toward allergic responses from their parents.

4. How can we strengthen the immune system of a child with allergies?
Strengthening the immune system in children with allergies involves a multi-faceted approach:
- Balanced Diet: Ensure your child has a well-rounded diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and flaxseeds, may help reduce inflammation.

- Regular Exercise: Physical activity can boost the immune system and improve overall health. Encourage outdoor play, which can also help with exposure to different environments.

- Adequate Sleep: Ensure your child gets enough restful sleep, as sleep is crucial for a healthy immune response.

- Stress Management: Teach your child relaxation techniques, as stress can exacerbate allergic reactions.

- Avoiding Allergens: Work with an allergist to identify and minimize exposure to known allergens, which can help reduce the frequency of allergic reactions and improve overall well-being.

- Probiotics: Some studies suggest that probiotics may help in managing allergies, but it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplements.

In conclusion, managing allergies in children requires a comprehensive approach that includes understanding the relationship between different allergic conditions, recognizing hereditary factors, and implementing lifestyle changes to enhance immune function. If your daughter's symptoms persist or worsen, I recommend consulting with an allergist or pediatrician for tailored advice and potential treatment options.

Thank you for your thoughtful questions, and I hope this information helps you navigate your daughter's allergies more effectively.

Best regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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