How your pediatricians in Poway, CA, can help your child with allergies

Your child’s nasal passages and sinuses are small, so if your child has allergies, the signs and symptoms will be much more obvious, and uncomfortable. Fortunately, your pediatrician can help your child get relief from allergies. Dr. Nathan Rendler and Dr. Kuangkai Tai at Valle Verde Pediatrics in Poway, CA, provide comprehensive pediatric medical care, including allergy testing and treatment.

Allergies are caused by exposure to an allergen, which is a substance that causes and adverse reaction when your child is exposed to it. Allergens can come in many forms, including:

• Grasses and trees
• Plant and flower pollens
• Pet hair and dander
• Dust mites and mold
• Peanuts, shellfish, and dairy

When your child is exposed to an allergen, some of the common signs and symptoms you may notice include:

• Itchy, watery eyes
• Itchy, runny nose
• Sneezing, coughing, or wheezing
• Rashes which can itch or burn
• Breathing problems
• Sore throat or nausea

If you notice any of the signs and symptoms listed above, your child could benefit from allergy testing. Allergy testing can be performed with:

• Skin tests, during which a small amount of allergen is placed just under the skin
• Challenge tests, during which a small amount of allergen is inhaled or ingested
• Blood tests, during which a sample of blood is taken and sent off to a laboratory

Depending on the severity of your child’s allergies, your pediatrician may recommend:

• Prescription-strength antihistamine medications
• Prescription-strength decongestant medications
• Nasal sprays containing steroids
• Sublingual immunotherapy
• Rescue inhalers and epi-pens
• Allergy shots

A severe allergic reaction can also be life-threatening, so you need to call 911 if your child is:

• Turning pale
• Developing a severe body rash
• Having severe breathing problems and is unable to speak

To learn more about the signs, symptoms, and treatment of your child’s allergies, call Dr. Nathan Rendler and Dr. Kuangkai Tai at Valle Verde Pediatrics in Poway, CA. You can reach them in the office by calling (858) 487-8333, so call now.