You’ve no doubt heard about some children developing an allergy to peanuts. While the effects of an allergy are usually fairly minor, they can be serious in some instances. But how does this kind of allergy occur in the first place?
It All Starts With Exposure
Once someone is exposed to an allergen, the body creates substances known as antibodies. These antibodies bind to the skin as well as organs inside the body, including those in the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts. When the body is once again exposed, molecules from the allergen – in this case, a peanut – reacts with those antibodies. This causes an allergic reaction.
There is some evidence that children who have a skin condition known as eczema may be up to three times more likely to develop food allergies than those who don’t have the condition. If they have severe eczema, the risk is even higher. It appears that peanut allergies tend to develop in children in the years between birth and their second birthday.
If your child has a peanut allergy or any other type of allergy, the professionals with Pediatric Healthcare of Northwest Houston can help. We can give you advice on how to help your child manage this issue, and we’ll be ready to give your child the treatment he or she needs if an allergic reaction ever occurs. Call (281) 655-1500 (Houston) or (936) 539-8190 (The Woodlands/Conroe) or contact us online.
