Environmental allergies are different from food allergies because they involve an immune response to something in your child’s surroundings rather than something they’ve consumed. This can include airborne pollutants such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, cigarette smoke and mold. Symptoms of environmental allergies include respiratory/pulmonary issues such as shortness of breath, wheezing, sneezing and a runny nose. They may also include headaches, itching and fatigue. For children who have asthma, the symptoms of environmental allergies can be very serious.
Asthma
Chronic asthma is fairly common. An estimated 20 million adults and children in the U.S. have the condition. In those under 18 years of age, it is one of the most common chronic disorders the country, currently afflicting over seven million children. Asthma is a disease of the branches of the windpipe, which are known as the bronchial tubes. When these tubes become inflamed, they narrow. This causes a tight feeling in the chest, shortness of breath and coughing. An asthma episode can be triggered by a variety of factors including allergens like pollen, respiratory infections and colds, pollutants, sudden temperature changes and stress. Children who experience asthma symptoms should be medically evaluated because this condition can be very serious if left untreated. AdventHealth specialists work with you to identify the problems that trigger your child’s asthma. Once diagnosed, they develop a treatment plan that will relieve your child’s symptoms, prevent flare-ups and restore your loved one to whole health as quickly as possible.