WHAT IS An ALLERGIST?
A QUALIFIED DOCTOR
A paediatric allergist is a doctor who specialises in identifying, managing and treating allergies and other immune problems in newborns to teens. Allergies can be very distressing and getting them under control can make a huge difference to your and your child’s wellbeing.
Allergists test, diagnose and treat many common allergies including hayfever, food allergies & intolerances and related conditions such as eczema and asthma. Allergic reactions usually cause symptoms in the nose, throat, sinuses, ears, stomach, skin or lungs. The most serious reaction is anaphylactic shock. Common allergens include food, pollen, house dust mites, animal dander, insect stings and medications.
HOW CAN THEY HELP?
PROBLEM SOLVING
Allergies or asthma can hold a child back from enjoying life in the way they should. Whatever the cause of an allergy, an allergist can help identify the problem and support in putting in place a suitable treatment plan. This may involve avoiding an allergen, modifying your diet or environment, medication to treat symptoms and desensitisation immunotherapy (tablets, drops or injections).
Another type of allergic reaction is a non-IgE-mediated food allergy or intolerance. These can be more subtle, causing a child to be unsettled. If an intolerance is suspected an allergist may refer you to a paediatric dietician or gastroenterologist.
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WHAT’s INVOLVED?
TAILORED SUPPORT
An allergist can help identify what is causing an allergic reaction in your child. Appointments are generally held in clinic and involve a detailed medical history of your child and family including any allergies or asthma.
A physical examination may be performed to assess your child’s eyes, nose and lungs. If your child has respiratory issues, they may be asked to breath into a device (often with the help of a game to get your child on board!). If required, allergy “prick” testing is performed. This is perfectly safe for infants and young children and is not a painful process. Allergy blood tests are also sometimes needed.
Once the assessment is completed, they will make a diagnosis and create a tailored treatment or management plan. Allergists may work with other experts to support your child such as paediatric dietitians and gastroenterologists.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
QUALIFIED & VERIFIED
Paediatric allergists are doctors who specialise in treating children with allergic diseases. Consultant nurses and dietitians also run allergy clinics in some parts of the country.
Most allergists and specialist nurses are members of The British Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (BSACI) helping them to stay up to date with the latest research in the field.
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