What is an allergy?
An allergy is an atypical reaction, such as hives, sneezing, or coughing, that occur when the immune system wages an overactive reaction to a substance that is harmless to most other people. An allergic reaction, known as an anaphylaxis causes the throat to swell shut and can be fatal.
What are the most common childhood allergies?
Children, as well as adults, can have allergies to foods or environmental factors.
Some of the most common food allergies are to:
- Eggs
- Shellfish
- Peanuts and other nuts
- Soy
- Wheat
- Dairy products
Common environmental allergens include:
- Dust mites
- Pet dander
- Pollen
- Mold
What is eczema?
Eczema, medically known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that produces itchy, inflamed patches of red scaly skin. As many as 30 million people in this country, including many children, suffer from eczema. In fact, eczema generally begins in early childhood. It periodically flares up and then subsides. Though there is no known cure for eczema, Dr. Nauman offers effective management, which can include oral anti-itch medication, anti-inflammatory drugs, and skin care counseling.
What is hay fever?
Hay fever, medically called allergic rhinitis, affects 40-60 million Americans, many of them children. It’s usually caused by an allergic reaction or sensitivity to airborne pollen, spores or mold, and may by seasonal or perennial. Persistent allergic symptoms can lead to recurrent ear infections, sinusitis and other bacterial infections that need a higher degree of care.
Hay fever symptoms can be extremely bothersome, including:
- Runny nose
- Itchy eyes
- Sneezing
- Stuffy nose
- Congestion
- Fatigue
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic allergy-like skin condition characterized by red, itchy skin patches. Psoriasis develops when the immune system sends faulty signals that instruct skin cells to grow too quickly. Skin cells form in days rather than weeks. As a result, excess cells pile up on the top surface of the skin. Psoriasis is a genetic condition that can’t be cured but can be effectively managed by Dr. Nauman.
In addition, Dr. Nauman can help your child with other skin conditions like eczema, dermatitis, warts, moles, and other skin lesions and rashes.
