Reliable guideline for children's health
Fall is a season when children are more likely to experience allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. Many parents wonder if their child’s allergy is a sign that something is wrong with their immune system.
An allergy occurs when the immune system reacts abnormally to harmless substances like pollen, dust, or pet dander. While these substances are harmless to most people, children with allergies have immune systems that mistakenly identify these substances as harmful "invaders" and release antibodies to fight them, leading to a range of allergic symptoms.
During the fall, levels of pollen, mold spores, and dust mites in the air tend to rise, making allergies more prevalent than in other seasons. Here are some common allergy triggers in the fall:
Many parents worry that their child’s allergy symptoms indicate a problem with their immune system. In reality, allergies don’t mean the immune system is unhealthy, but rather that it is overreacting to certain substances. An allergy is essentially an “overreaction” of the immune system to harmless external substances.
For children, whose immune systems are still developing, sensitivity to certain allergens is more common. However, this does not mean that their immune system is defective. In fact, the immune system is trying to protect the body, even though it sometimes "overdoes" its response.
While allergies cannot be completely cured, parents can take steps to help reduce symptoms and improve their child’s quality of life.
If your child’s allergy symptoms are severe, consult a doctor for the appropriate antihistamines or nasal sprays. These medications can effectively relieve symptoms such as sneezing and nasal congestion.
While allergies are an overreaction of the immune system, parents can still support their child’s overall immunity through a healthy lifestyle. A balanced diet, sufficient sleep, and regular exercise can strengthen the immune system, helping the body better manage allergens.
If your child’s allergy symptoms are severe and affect daily life, or if their symptoms extend beyond the fall season (indicating year-round allergies), it’s advisable to see a doctor for a professional allergy test. Skin tests or blood tests can identify specific allergens, allowing the doctor to create a personalized allergy management plan for your child.
Fall is a peak time for children’s allergies, but having an allergy does not mean there’s something wrong with the immune system—it simply reacts differently. By minimizing exposure to allergens, maintaining a clean environment, and using medications when necessary, parents can help their children cope with fall allergies and improve their quality of life. If allergy symptoms persist and affect the child’s health and daily activities, seeking professional medical help is crucial.
