As a parent, it’s distressing to see your child struggle with allergies. You’re constantly on alert—avoiding triggers, keeping them comfortable, and making sure they feel included.
Childhood allergies are on the rise worldwide, including in the UAE, due to factors like low immunity, processed foods, and limited outdoor time. Common allergies include allergic rhinitis, eczema, food allergies, and anaphylaxis. In the UAE, house dust mites are a particularly common trigger.
Managing allergies effectively is essential for your child’s health, comfort, and confidence.
Why Are Childhood Allergies Increasing?
Understanding the causes can help parents take preventive steps:
- Low immunity – Reduced exposure to diverse microbes in early childhood can affect immune system development.
- Processed foods – Modern diets with additives and preservatives may increase sensitivities.
- Indoor lifestyle – Less outdoor time and more exposure to indoor allergens impact the body’s response.
- Environmental factors – Air conditioning, sealed buildings, and indoor allergen exposure play a role.
Common Childhood Allergies Every Parent Should Know
| Allergy Type | Common Triggers | Typical Symptoms | Management Tips |
| Food Allergies | Peanuts, milk, eggs, soy, wheat, tree nuts, fish, shellfish | Hives, swelling of lips/face/tongue, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, wheezing, anaphylaxis in severe cases | Avoid trigger foods, inform caregivers, keep emergency medications (EpiPen) ready, read food labels every time, teach child not to share food, regular pediatric check-ups |
| Dust Allergy | Dust mites, household dust | Sneezing, runny nose, itchy/watery eyes, nasal congestion, night coughing, worsened asthma | Vacuum with HEPA filter, minimize carpets & heavy curtains, use dust-mite-proof covers, wash bedding weekly in hot water, maintain 30–50% indoor humidity, wash stuffed toys regularly |
| Seasonal Allergies | Pollen (trees, grasses, weeds), desert dust | Sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, itchy/watery eyes, scratchy throat, fatigue | Keep windows closed during dust storms/pollen season, use HEPA air purifiers, handwashing & change clothes after outdoor play, shower before bedtime, monitor pollen/dust forecasts, preventive antihistamines if needed |
| Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) | Irritating soaps, fabrics, certain foods | Dry, inflamed, itchy skin patches (face, elbows, knees, hands, feet) | Moisturize regularly with fragrance-free creams, use prescribed medicated creams, clean skin with gentle soap-free cleansers, avoid hot baths, dress in soft cotton fabrics, avoid triggers |
Recognizing Allergy Symptoms in Toddlers and Young Children
Young children may not describe symptoms clearly. Watch for:
- Repeated reactions to specific foods or environments
- Persistent runny nose or congestion (>2 weeks)
- Frequent eye or nose rubbing
- Skin rashes after exposure to triggers
- Wheezing or breathing issues
- Digestive problems after certain foods
Tip: Unlike colds, allergies don’t cause fever and persist beyond 10–14 days.
Seek urgent medical attention if your child shows:
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling of face or throat
- Widespread hives
- Any severe reaction
Allergy Testing for Children
Your doctor can recommend the best test based on age and symptoms:
- Skin prick test: Quick, painless; results in 15–20 minutes
- Blood test (IgE): Measures antibodies to allergens
- Patch test: Used for contact allergies (eczema triggers)
- Elimination diet: Remove suspected foods and reintroduce one at a time
Managing Allergies: A Long-Term Approach
Allergies cannot be cured, but they can be managed effectively:
- Medications: Antihistamines, nasal sprays, inhalers, or emergency epinephrine
- Lifestyle changes: Create an allergen-reduced home environment
- Trigger avoidance: Identify and minimize exposure to known allergens
- Regular monitoring: Track symptoms and adjust care with your pediatrician
Helping Your Child Feel Confident Despite Allergies
Your approach as a parent shapes your child’s emotional well-being.
Support tips:
- Discuss allergies calmly without fear or anxiety
- Teach children to recognize symptoms and ask for help
- Role-play scenarios for saying “no” to unsafe foods
- Celebrate what they can do, not just what they avoid
- Collaborate with schools for safe, inclusive environments
Expert Pediatric Allergy Care at Burjeel by the Beach Clinic, Saadiyat
Burjeel Saadiyat offers comprehensive pediatric allergy care:
- Allergy assessments and diagnostic testing
- Personalized management plans
- Emergency action plan development and training
- Ongoing support for families
Book Your Child’s Allergy Consultation at Burjeel by the beach Clinic Saadiyat Today
