Allergy symptoms range in type and severity and often depend on the child’s age. “Most children [under five] have relatively mild outdoor allergies,” says Dr. Frank Virant, Clinical professor of pediatrics at the University of Washington School of Medicine in Seattle. So you may not notice any symptoms. Those older than five may suffer from itchy, red eyes, a clear, drippy nose and excessive sneezing, chronic cough, recurrent colds, eczema and nightly nasal congestion. Secondary problems may include recurrent middle ear problems, sinus infections and asthma.

Mild symptoms of a food allergy include eczema, rhinitis (stuffy nose), abdominal pain, headaches, congestion, irritability, hives, lip swelling and sore muscles. A severe reaction to a food is referred to as anaphylaxis, which can be fatal. During this type of attack, numerous areas of the body (i.e. skin, lungs, bowel and heart) are affected within minutes or up to two hours of contact with the offending substance. The child may experience vomiting, diarrhea, swelling of the mouth and throat and difficulty breathing.

Is it a cold?  Sometimes it’s difficult to determine whether your child has allergies or a recurring cold. If the symptoms persist for more than three months, disturb your child’s sleep, decrease her quality of life or interfere with her normal activities, she most likely has allergies.