Could it be more than“just allergies”?
- May 1
- 2 min read
Does your child struggle with sore tummies, skin rashes, or a constantly snotty nose? There may be underlying sensitivities or intolerances impacting their overall health and wellbeing.
While we often think of allergies as sneezing fits or hives, many children experience symptoms that don’t fit the typical picture.
A true medical allergy involves the immune system releasing a substance called IgE, which can trigger swelling, hives or wheezing soon after exposure. Sensitivities and intolerances, however, are different. They don’t involve the immune system in the same way, and symptoms can take up to 48 hours to appear.
Reactions may only occur once your child’s personal “threshold” has been exceeded, which can make identifying triggers particularly challenging.
In my Murwillumbah clinic, I see many children with symptoms that wouldn’t traditionally be linked to allergies.
COMMON SIGNS OF SENSITIVITIES OR INTOLERANCES INCLUDE:
Digestive: sore tummies, bloating, constipation or loose stools
Respiratory: blocked or constantly runny nose, snoring, ongoing sneezing
Skin: red, itchy patches on the face, behind the knees or in elbow creases
Mood and energy: fatigue, irritability or mood swings
Every child is different, but some of the most common food triggers I see are naturally occurring food chemicals such as salicylates, amines, glutamates and histamine, which are present in many otherwise healthy fruits and vegetables. Environmental triggers including dust, dust mites and mould, common in the Northern Rivers climate, can also play a role.
Positive Association Technique (PAT) is a gentle, natural approach I use in clinic. Combining muscle testing and acupressure, it helps identify potential triggers and support the body in improving tolerance over time. Taking a holistic approach allows us to look beyond surface symptoms, uncover underlying causes and create personalised plans that may include nutrition, herbal medicine and other supportive therapies.
Emily Chamberlain is a Northern Rivers–based Naturopath and PAT Practitioner with over 20 years’ experience. She works with clients of all ages, from newborns to older adults, with a special interest in children’s health and women’s and men’s wellbeing. Emily is passionate about making complex health information simple and practical for families.