Allergies
Allergies occur when your immune system overreacts to something that is usually harmless — such as pollen, dust, or certain foods. Your body treats the invader like a threat and triggers a reaction.
Allergic reactions can range from mild, like sneezing or a rash, to life-threatening. Some people are born with allergies, others develop them later.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are food allergies?
Food allergies occur when your body reacts badly to a certain food or ingredient. Symptoms may include:
- Hives (itchy bumps)
- Stuffy nose, sneezing, or itchy eyes
- Stomach pain, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Tingling or swelling
A severe reaction is called anaphylaxis. Signs of anaphylaxis include trouble breathing, hoarse voice or throat tightness, swelling, coughing, a weak pulse, hives, difficulty swallowing, or a combination of symptoms. Call 911 immediately if you suspect anaphylaxis.
What are environmental allergies?
Things like pollen, dust, mold, pet dander, and cockroaches can trigger symptoms including:
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Runny, stuffy nose
- Tiredness or fatigue
- Itchy skin or mouth
How common are allergies?
Very common! Allergies often run in families and can appear at any age. Sometimes allergies can fade and return years later. Substances that cause allergies are called allergens. Common food allergens are eggs, milk, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, wheat, soy, and sesame. Environmental allergies can be seasonal. Irritants such as smoke and perfume can cause similar symptoms but are not true allergies.
How can I find out if a reaction is an allergy?
Talk to a medical provider. You might be referred to an allergist for skin or blood tests to diagnose a specific allergy. Allergists can also do food testing, monitoring exposure to certain foods. Together, you can develop an allergy action plan.
What kind of treatments are available for allergies?
Avoiding triggers is best, but not always possible. Treatments include:
- Medications: prescription or over the counter.
- Allergy shots: long-term treatment that helps your body get used to what you're allergic to. Frequent shots are given regularly over three to five years. This option is used when an allergen is unavoidable or medication does not work well.
For food allergies: always read labels, let others know about the allergy, and teach children how to stay safe.
For severe allergies: Carry epinephrine (EpiPen) at all times. It's the only treatment for anaphylaxis. Use it right away if there are symptoms — do NOT wait. There are also nasal spray versions of epinephrine available. If a child can't carry their epinephrine, make sure it's available wherever they go (school, sports, etc.).
What other conditions sometimes occur with allergies?
People with allergies may also have asthma or eczema (dry, itchy skin). Food and environmental allergies often occur together.
Talking with a Medical Provider
When talking with a medical provider, you might want to:
- Share photos or descriptions of reactions.
- Discuss how to avoid allergens.
- Create an action plan.
- Ask about epinephrine use and storage.
What You Can Do at Home
Avoid suspected food allergens until you see a medical provider. Reduce exposure to environmental allergens by:
- Washing bedding and clothes often
- Closing windows during pollen seasons
- Dusting, vacuuming, and changing air filters frequently
Go Deeper
Find Resources
Search New York State
Families, caregivers, youth, and community partners in New York State can use this searchable resource guide to find information, services, and support. ACT for Youth.
Allergy Treatments and Planning
Allergy Medicine
Learn more about the medications available to treat allergy symptoms. American Academy of Pediatricians (AAP).
Create an Allergy and Anaphylaxis Emergency Plan
If your child is at risk of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), their doctor will prescribe epinephrine. Epinephrine is a life-saving drug and can keep a reaction from getting worse. It's also important to have an emergency plan that is shared with adults wherever a child spends time. AAP.
Food Allergy Stages
Different skills are needed for managing and coping with food allergies in daily life at different ages. The Food Allergy Stages handouts were designed to help families manage food allergies and teach children about food allergies at different developmental stages. American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.
About This Series
This series of handouts and web pages on health conditions was written by clinicians in Weill Cornell Medicine's Pediatric Mental Health Integration Program, partners in the ACT for Youth CYSHCN Program Center of Excellence at Cornell University.
