About Allergies Portland OR

What is it?

• In early childhood, skin rashes, upset stomach and diarrhea may be the first signs of allergy, especially if a baby is bottle-fed on cow’s milk formulas.
• Red, watery and itchy eyes, along with runny nose, cough, sneezing and wheezing are commonly seen symptoms of allergies in toddlers and pre-school children.  
• Stomachaches, diarrhea, loss of appetite and loss of weight are less common but do occur.
• In severe allergies, such as those from stinging insects, peanuts or dairy products, a condition known as anaphylaxis may occur. This condition is characterized by difficulty breathing, pale and clammy skin and loss of consciousness. 

• Begin by carefully assessing when allergic symptoms occur and what contact with food, plant, product or insect may be associated.
• When an offending substance, such as a dairy product, eggs or poison ivy is known, avoid it! 
• Elimination diets may help pinpoint allergies to foods.  
• Antihistamines, cortisone creams and other medications should be used only upon medical advice.                 

• Symptoms persist in spite of attempts to avoid contact with suspected offenders. 
• Eczema develops.
• Wheezing occurs.
• Immediately, if signs of severe reactions develop - difficulty breathing, pale and clammy skin and loss of consciousness. 

Managing allergies

• Avoiding, whenever possible what causes them   
• Following medical advice    
• Knowing how to handle an emergency and keeping a good supply of tissues handy for the inevitable coughs, sneezes and runny noses!