For children, allergies can be quite a difficult time when first learning how to manage them. When a child has allergies, his or her immune system will wrongly react to things that are usually quite harmless. Pet dander, mold spores, insect bite/stings, and food are all prime examples of what is most common among child allergies. Some of the reactions may cause the body to respond with health problems such as asthmatic attacks, hives, or a very severe reaction called anaphylaxis.
At times, infections may present themselves as well due to a weakened immune defense system. Taking a child to an Allergy specialist in Birmingham, AL will help to determine the right approach for keeping the allergy reactions at bay and finding ways to treat the allergies and immune system problems.
Types of Treatments
A pediatric allergist will perform diagnoses via special testing. These tests are generally quick and painless. Treatment may combine avoiding the things that cause the allergies, allergy shots, or medications. Allergists will provide treatment to many conditions caused by allergies including the following:
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Asthma
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Allergic Rhinitis
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Sinusitis
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Eczema
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Hives
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Severe reactions to foods and insect stings
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Reactions to medications
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Immune disorders that lead to frequent sinusitis, pneumonia or diarrhea
Choosing an Allergist
Choosing an allergy specialist in Birmingham AL can seem overwhelming but your child’s overall health depends greatly on this decision. Listed below are a few factors to keep in mind to help ease the process.
Get referrals – Start the search with a list of referrals from the child’s primary care doctor or specialist. Ask for references from family and friends.
Research the allergist – Confirm that the allergist has no history of any malpractice claims or disciplinary actions. Research the board certifications he or she possess and any other certifications or training they may have.
Consider gender – It is important that the child feels comfortable with their allergist. This will allow for the child to feel comfortable to discuss any concerns and personal information with their provider. Some may feel intimidated with the opposite sex. Choose an allergist based upon your child’s needs.
While allergies may interfere with a child’s lifestyle, it is still possible for them to lead a normal life. Becoming aware of the types of allergies is crucial for knowing what type of treatment plan to work with. For more information on Allergy Specialist in Birmingham AL, contact Alabama Allergy & Asthma Center today.
