When the immune system overreacts — Health, 7–10 years
An allergy is not simply disliking a food or plant. It is an immune reaction to something that is usually harmless, and it can sometimes need quick adult help.
A mistaken alarm
The immune system normally helps defend you from harmful invaders. With an allergy, it mistakes a harmless substance, such as pollen, a food or a sting, for danger and releases chemicals that cause symptoms like itching, swelling, sneezing or wheezing.
Why does an allergy matter?
The reaction began as a defence system, but an overreaction can harm the person it is meant to protect. Knowing a child’s trigger helps adults avoid it and act early. This is why allergy information belongs at home, in school and wherever food or medicine is shared.
A reaction to peanuts
1. A child with a peanut allergy eats a biscuit containing peanuts. 2. The immune system treats peanut proteins as dangerous. 3. It releases chemicals, and the child develops itchy skin and swollen lips. 4. The child tells an adult immediately. 5. The adult follows the child’s allergy plan and seeks emergency help if breathing or swallowing becomes difficult.
An allergy is not always visible
It is tempting to think an allergy is real only when there is a rash. Some reactions affect the mouth, stomach or lungs instead, and a person may first feel sick, cough or struggle to breathe. Because symptoms can change quickly, never dismiss a reported allergy as fussiness.
Making shared spaces safer
Allergy care appears at birthday parties, school meals, picnics and visits to friends. Read labels with an adult, do not swap food when someone has an allergy, and tell an adult if a reaction begins. A person with an allergy is not being difficult; avoiding a trigger protects their body.
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