02/12/2025

LYFE TUESDAY | DEC 2, 2025

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Building fortified immunity in kids

A N increase in childhood allergies, seems to be a surfacing trend where urban living and vibrant cityscapes define daily life. What was o n c e considered a minor nuisance has become a significant health concern, with triggers ranging from dust mites to severe food reactions. According to estimates, one in five Malaysian children may develop allergies, underscoring the urgent need for parents to understand, manage and prevent these conditions. Allergies are more than just sneezes or skin rashes, they can deeply affect a child’s quality of life. Urban living exposes children to higher allergens such as dust mites, pollution and smoke. While parents cannot control everything, they can take steps to make their homes safer havens. Most common allergens in Malaysia and recognising symptoms Dust mites are the most common triggers for respiratory allergies in Malaysia. They thrive in humid conditions and hide in bedding, soft furnishings and carpets. Pet dander is another major factor. Even hypoallergenic pets can still provoke reactions in sensitive children. Though less common than in Western countries, food allergies can include reactions to peanuts, shellfish and milk. Pollen and mould also pose challenges, particularly in damp urban areas. Allergy symptoms can vary and typically appear between two to three years of age, although food allergies may develop as early as six months while respiratory allergies, such as hay fever, often happens around five or six years of age. Respiratory triggers can cause sneezing, coughing, wheezing or nasal congestion. Allergic rhinitis, the most common childhood allergy, is characterised by sneezing, a runny o Managing your child’s allergies, one step at a time TAMAN Tugu , in collaboration with Museum of Science Arts and Innovation for Children recently celebrated Children’s Day @ Taman Tugu with “A Day Just for Kids” event. This year’s celebration sees nearly 2,000 attendees coming together to celebrate and create memories. Children from Rumah Titian Kaseh were also invited to join the celebration. The affair offered fun activities, including performances from Wangsa Culture Kids, a magic show and a mini music party. Attendees also participated in mini carnival games, a colouring contest and face painting. As a rehabilitated 66-acre urban forest park in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, Taman Tugu continues to

four and six months of age, but avoid whole peanuts to prevent choking. Choose air purifiers wisely: Avoid fragrances or chemicals that irritate sensitive airways. Allergy trends and myths The belief that children will naturally outgrow allergies, among other misconceptions about allergies persist. While some do, a lot of allergies persist into adulthood and if not managed properly, are capable of impacting the quality of life. Avoiding triggers like cold drinks will help prevent respiratory issues, is another myth. With proper management, children with asthma or allergic rhinitis can enjoy normal activities without unnecessary restrictions. Parents may also worry about inhaler dependency, but inhalers are not addictive. They are life-changing tools that help children breathe freely and thrive. As conditions improve, reliance on medication can be reduced gradually. The pandemic has also influenced allergy trends. Lockdowns temporarily reduced kids’ exposure to infections, easing respiratory symptoms, but limiting opportunities for immunity-building. Reduced exposure meant kids missed out on essential immunity-building that left them more vulnerable post-Covid. Gradually reintroduce your kids to diverse environments while maintaining good hygiene. This helps you to identify potential allergens, while their natural defences rebuild. Managing childhood allergies requires teamwork between parents and healthcare providers. Regular check-ups with a paediatrician is essential for early detection and treatment. The early years are crucial for long-term health. Stay informed, take action and do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Every step you take now will help your child live a healthier, happier life. This article is contributed by Dr Noor Zehan Abdul Rahim, consultant paediatrician and paediatric respiratory specialist at Sunway Medical Centre in Sunway City.

Parents should introduce allergenic food carefully, experts say.

overwhelming, here are some simple but effective steps parents can take to reduce allergen exposure and manage symptoms that can make a big difference. Clean and declutter by using dust-mite-proof covers and vacuuming regularly. Eliminate smoke exposure, even particles on clothes can aggravate allergies exponentially. Manage pet allergens: Keep pets out of bedrooms and consider rehoming if unmanageable. Introduce allergenic foods carefully and under medical guidance. Foods like eggs and peanuts are appropriate between

Persistent allergic rhinitis can lead to chronic sinusitis or asthma, which disrupt a child’s sleep, focus and everyday activities. Alarmingly, asthma rates in Malaysian children have surged from 6.4% to 9.4% among six and seven-year-olds and from 9% to 13% among 13–14-year olds. Asthma triggered by untreated allergies can be life-altering if not properly managed. It is heartbreaking to see children struggle with something that can often be prevented or controlled.

connect communities to nature through inclusive programmes, environmental education and community-driven events. This well-planned celebration forms part of Taman Tugu’s ongoing efforts to promote environmental awareness among young Malaysians and families, introducing them to the importance of forest, biodiversity and green spaces in a fun and interactive manner. Inspired by the Malay proverb melentur buluh biarlah dari rebungnya , which means the shaping of minds begins from a young age, Taman Tugu aims to nurture children’s appreciation for the environment, encourage outdoor activity, foster creativity and confidence while inspiring care for nature from a young age. nose and nasal blockage. Vomiting or diarrhoea can indicate food allergies, while skin reactions such as rashes or eczema may signal environmental or dietary causes. Parents should be vigilant of recurring symptoms and stay on watch. If a child frequently reacts after eating certain foods or being in specific environments, it is worth investigating further. Keeping a symptom diary helps to identify patterns and triggers. Ignoring allergies can have lasting effects The risks of untreated allergies go far beyond temporary discomfort.

What parents can do While allergies

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Children playfully celebrating nature at Taman Tugu

Wangsa Culture Kids performing at the recent Children’s Day celebration.