A Guide to Allergies in Children

Allergies are common at every age. Even babies and toddlers can develop allergies. Allergies in children can show up in unexpected ways. Many children develop familiar symptoms like hives or stuffy noses. But others can have symptoms like bloody poop or trouble gaining weight. 

Figuring out whether your baby is having an allergic reaction can be challenging. But knowing what to look out for and when to get help can make the process much easier. Here’s what you should know about allergies in kids. 

What are signs of allergies in children?

Allergies are symptoms that develop when children are exposed to triggers, like:

• Pollen or plants

• Bees or wasps

• Cockroaches

• Dust, mold, or house mites

• Animal dander

• Medications

• Chemicals

• Foods, especially peanuts, tree nuts, soybeans, cow’s milk, fish, wheat, seafood, or sesame

When they’re exposed to these triggers, kids who have allergies can develop symptoms like:

• Rashes and hives

• Congestion and runny nose

• Sneezing

• Itchy, red, watery eyes

• Cough

• Vomiting and diarrhea

• Bloody stool

• Weight loss or trouble gaining weight

Children with allergies can also develop anaphylaxis — a more serious allergic reaction. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include:

• Hives

• Face, tongue, or lip swelling

• Trouble swallowing

• Throat tightness

• Cough

• Trouble breathing

• Chest tightness

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Stomach pain

• Dizziness

• Confusion

What are the most common allergies in children?

Your child’s age matters when it comes to allergies. Children can develop allergies to many types of triggers, but they’re more likely to develop certain types of allergies at certain ages. 

For example, babies and toddlers are more likely to develop food allergies than older children. Food allergies may last throughout childhood or even into adulthood.

But toddlers, young children, and school-age children are more likely to develop seasonal allergies. Babies and infants don’t usually have seasonal allergies. 

Let’s go over some of the most common types of childhood allergies.

What are common allergy treatments for children?

The best treatment for childhood allergies depends on the allergy — both the cause and reaction.

For all allergies, the best treatment is to avoid the trigger. But that’s not always possible, and medications may be needed to help with symptoms.

Here are some treatments commonly prescribed for childhood allergies.

Can you prevent allergies in kids?

You can’t stop your child from developing allergies, but there are a few things you can do to help reduce their risk. Here’s what research shows:

• Breastfeeding: Breast milk is very unlikely to trigger an allergic reaction, and it can help reduce the risk of cow’s milk protein allergy. Wheezing and eczema — common medical problems that are often linked to allergies — are also less likely when a baby breastfeeds for at least 6 months. 

• Solid foods: It’s a good idea to include a broad variety — including egg, dairy, peanut, tree nut, fish, shellfish, and sesame — because delaying these foods can make allergies more likely. 

• Dust mites: Exposure to dust and mold in early life can trigger allergies. Take steps to reduce dust in bedding, furniture, and carpets.

• Cigarette smoke: The irritants in cigarette smoke cause inflammation in babies’ respiratory systems and may increase their risk of developing asthma and other lung problems.

• Pets: The effect is very small, but some research suggests that children who grow up with a pet are less likely to develop allergies to pet dander.

Does every child with allergies need to see an allergist?

Not all kids with allergies need to see an allergist. But it’s a good idea for your child to see an allergist if:

• Your child needs an allergy test: If you’re not sure what’s causing your child’s allergies, an allergy test can help figure out what’s really going on. Allergy tests can help you narrow down what your child really needs to avoid to stay symptom free.

• Your child isn’t getting better: If your child isn’t getting better with regular allergy medication, it’s time to see an allergist. They may recommend newer allergy medication or allergy shots.

• Your child has a life-threatening allergy: If your child has a life-threatening allergy, an allergist may recommend desensitization therapy. 

Why trust our experts?

Written by:

Patricia Pinto-Garcia, MD, MPH

Patricia Pinto-Garcia, MD, MPH, is a medical editor at GoodRx. She is a licensed, board-certified pediatrician with more than a decade of experience in academic medicine.

Reviewed by:

Kerry R. McGee, MD, FAAP

Kerry McGee, MD, FAAP, has over a decade of experience caring for babies, children, and teenagers as a primary care pediatrician. She has a special interest in adolescent health, particularly in adolescent mental health.

Our editorial standards

Meet our experts