The Rise of Childhood Allergies: Are Our Kids Becoming More Sensitive?

Does your child sneeze every time the season changes? Break into rashes after eating a snack? You're not alone. Childhood allergies are on the rise - not just in cities, but also in smaller towns like Siliguri and Bagdogra. As a leading paediatrician and allergy expert in Siliguri, Dr. Brahma Dev Singh often sees worried parents unsure how to manage these issues.

This blog explains why allergies in children are increasing, what types are most common, and what you, as a parent, can do to keep your child safe and healthy.

What Are Allergies?

An allergy is when the immune system overreacts to a substance that's normally harmless, like pollen, dust, food, or certain fabrics. This overreaction causes symptoms like sneezing, itching, rashes, breathing trouble, or even serious reactions like swelling and vomiting.

Why Are Childhood Allergies Increasing?

Researchers and doctors have noted a steady rise in allergic conditions among children over the last 20 years. Some possible reasons include:

Urban lifestyle and pollution : Children in cities are exposed to more pollutants, dust mites, and chemical irritants.

Reduced outdoor activity : Less time playing in natural environments may affect immune system development.

Changes in diet : Processed foods, artificial additives, and early introduction of allergens may trigger reactions.

Overuse of antibiotics : Repeated antibiotics in early life may change gut bacteria, affecting immunity.

Hygiene Hypothesis : Kids today are exposed to fewer germs, which might lead their immune system to overreact to harmless things.

Common Allergies in Children

As a child allergy specialist in Siliguri, Dr. Singh diagnoses and treats a wide range of allergic conditions, including:

1. Food Allergies

• Common triggers: milk, eggs, peanuts, soy, wheat, seafood
• Symptoms: rash, swelling, vomiting, stomach cramps, breathing difficulty

2. Respiratory Allergies

• Dust mites, pollen, mould, pet dander
• Leads to childhood asthma, frequent sneezing, runny nose, coughing, or wheezing

3. Skin Allergies

• Eczema, hives, allergic contact dermatitis
• Triggered by soaps, lotions, fabrics, or food

4. Insect Bite Allergies

• Swelling, itching, or severe reaction (anaphylaxis) after a bee or mosquito bite

Signs to Watch For

If your child shows any of these symptoms regularly, it could be due to an allergy:

• Constant sneezing or coughing
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Red, bumpy rashes or dry skin
• Stomach pain or loose motions after certain foods
• Trouble breathing, especially at night or during activity

Diagnosis: How Are Allergies Confirmed?

Dr. Brahma Dev Singh uses a combination of:

• Detailed history and physical exam
• Skin prick tests for specific allergens
• Blood tests (IgE levels)
• Food elimination trials to identify triggers

The goal is to find what your child is allergic to and how severe the reaction is.

Allergy Treatment Options

1. Avoiding Triggers

• Once the allergen is identified, avoid exposure - whether it's a food, fabric, or environment.

2. Medications

• Antihistamines for rashes and sneezing
• Inhalers for asthma
• Topical creams for eczema
• Emergency epinephrine (EpiPen) for severe food allergies

3. Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots)

• In select cases, allergy shots are used to slowly reduce sensitivity to triggers over time

Allergy Care with Dr. Brahma Dev Singh in Siliguri

At his clinics in Siliguri and Bagdogra, Dr. Singh offers:

• Personalised allergy testing for children
• Safe and effective asthma treatment plans
• Skin care for eczema and contact allergies
• Dietary counselling for food allergies
• Parent education to handle emergency allergic reactions

His friendly approach helps both kids and parents feel comfortable while getting the care they need.

Tips for Parents: Living with Allergies

• Keep the home dust-free, especially bedrooms
• Avoid strong perfumes, incense, and air fresheners
• Use hypoallergenic soap and laundry detergent
• Keep pets clean and away from sleeping areas
• Track food reactions in a diary
• Always carry emergency medicines if advised

FAQs: Quick Answers

Q: Can allergies go away on their own?
A: Some mild allergies may reduce with age, but many require ongoing management.

Q: Are allergies the same as colds?
A: No. Colds come and go, but allergy symptoms are long-lasting and often seasonal or trigger-based.

Q: Can babies have allergies?
A: Yes. Even infants can have skin or food allergies. Early diagnosis is key.

Allergies in children may be rising, but with the right guidance, they can be managed effectively. As one of the most experienced paediatricians in Siliguri, Dr. Brahma Dev Singh helps children breathe easier, sleep better, and grow without fear of allergic flare-ups.

If you're looking for allergy & asthma treatment for your child in Siliguri, book a consultation today and take the first step toward safer, healthier living.