Allergies and asthma can start early in life—sometimes as young as age 2—and children are especially vulnerable due to their still-developing immune systems. At Boulder Medical Center in Louisville, Colorado, our board-certified allergist, Dr. Katie McCormack, provides expert care for infants, children, and teens with allergies, asthma, and other immune-related conditions.
Recognizing Allergy Symptoms in Children
Allergy symptoms in kids can include:
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- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Runny or congested nose
- Itchy, watery eyes
These symptoms may be triggered by:
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- Seasonal allergens, such as pollen, grass, and weeds
- Year-round allergens: including pet dander, dust mites, and indoor pests like cockroaches or mice
- Food allergens: Up to 8% of children in the U.S.—about 2 per classroom—live with food allergies
The Link Between Allergies and Childhood Asthma
Children with allergies are at increased risk for developing asthma, a chronic condition that inflames and narrows the airways. Asthma affects an estimated 6 million children in the U.S., resulting in more than 10 million missed school days yearly.
Asthma can be influenced by both genetics and environmental exposures, such as:
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- Family history of asthma or allergies
- Secondhand smoke
- Air pollution
- Viral respiratory infections in infancy
Common signs of asthma in children include:
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- A persistent or recurring cough, especially at night
- Wheezing or whistling when breathing out
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing during play or physical activity
In severe cases, asthma can lead to respiratory emergencies that require immediate medical attention.
How to Identify Triggers and Get Help
If unsure what’s causing your child’s symptoms, consider starting a symptom diary. Track:
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- Time and duration of symptoms
- Suspected environmental or food triggers
- Activity levels and response to treatments
Bring this diary to your child’s appointment with our Louisville allergy and asthma team to help guide diagnosis and treatment planning.
Katie McCormack, MD
Meet Dr. Katie McCormack
Expert pediatric allergist in Louisville, Colorado
Dr. Katie McCormack is a board-certified allergist and immunologist specializing in pediatrics and allergy care. She offers personalized, evidence-based care for children with seasonal and year-round allergies, asthma, eczema, food allergies, and other immune-related concerns.
Resources
- Get to know Dr. Katie McCormack
- Call (303) 440-3083 for an appointment