About 4-8% of children in Australia are affected by food allergies alone, with some reactions being dangerous and even causing death. It is because allergies compromise a child's underdeveloped immune system significantly. Unfortunately, some allergic symptoms appear harmless, which delays a visit to an immunologist. It makes it challenging to address the impact of an allergy to a child's immune system. Here are skin conditions indicating that your child needs to see an immunologist.   

Thick Leathery Patches

Children's skin is very sensitive and occasionally itchy. However, if itching results from thick leathery patches, it might be time to see an immunologist. The condition is often associated with eczema, and although doctors do not know its causes, they can administer medication to help soothe the itching and improve skin suppleness. The symptoms appear around the face in infants and later spread to the arms and torso. The skin becomes highly irritable, making it very uncomfortable for children. Therefore, if you see your child scratching their skin frequently and you notice patches of dry spots, make an appointment with an immunologist immediately.  

Rashes

Rashes are another sign that your child could be having an allergic reaction. In most cases, rashes develop when a child's skin is exposed to something they are sensitive to. For instance, plants such as poison ivy, wood nettle, leadwort, and ragweed produce allergens on the leaves, stem, or both. The allergens enter the body through the pores, which triggers the immune system to launch an attack. The reaction is what causes irritation and leads to rashes. Thus, parents should inspect the environment around their house thoroughly to ensure that no such plants are present. Skin rashes can also be caused by cosmetics, food ingredients, and some medications. However, only an immunologist can make the determination. Therefore, make an appointment the moment you see rashes on your child's skin.

Hives

If you notice red, itchy swellings on your child's skin, which appear out of nowhere, you might be dealing with hives. Allergic reactions to some foods cause hives, but in some cases, a doctor might not know the cause until they run a blood test. Additionally, hives vary in size and can present all over the body or in specific places. There are different types of hives, including cold-induced hives, dermatographism, and solar hives. However, only an immunologist can distinguish them. Although hives are not dangerous, they can be uncomfortable, especially in children. Fortunately, an immunologist can address the condition. 

Call an immunologist like one at Darwin Dermatology to schedule an appointment.