How We Can Improve Your Allergies

Skin rashes, itchy eyes, and sneezing are all signs your child might be dealing with allergies. Allergy symptoms can cause discomfort and interfere with participation in certain activities, such as playing outside where outdoor allergens can further aggravate symptoms. Various treatment options are available for improving allergy symptoms. The experienced pediatricians at Timberlake Pediatrics in Sacramento, CA, treat allergies and can improve your child’s symptoms.

Allergy Symptoms

Allergy symptoms occur when the body reacts to a specific allergen, such as dust, dander, pollen, or mold. Other allergens include certain foods and medications. Symptoms can differ depending on what allergen is causing them. Common allergy symptoms for different types of allergens include:

• Facial swelling (tongue, lips, eyes)
• Wheezing or coughing
• Shortness of breath
• A skin rash or hives
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Sinus congestion
• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Scratchy throat
• Vomiting

Allergy Testing and Treatment

Allergy tests can assist in determining what specific allergens are causing your child’s symptoms. Once the actual allergens are identified, a treatment plan can be developed to minimize or eliminate symptoms. A standard allergy test entails exposing the child’s skin to different allergens and observing which ones cause a reaction, such as a rash or other symptoms.

Several methods are available for treating allergies at our Sacramento, CA, pediatric office. Prescription allergy medications can help reduce symptoms during allergy flare ups. Another option is immunotherapy, which helps the body build up tolerance to a specific allergen so it no longer produces an allergic reaction.

Immunotherapy can be administered by injection or sublingually by placing crops beneath the tongue. Both methods involve exposing the patient to small doses of the allergen regularly. Over time, repeated exposure helps the body build up tolerance to the allergen. As the body becomes immune to the allergen, eventually it will no longer produce allergy symptoms.

If your child struggles with allergies, we can develop a treatment plan to improve symptoms. For the treatment of allergies in Sacramento, CA, schedule an appointment with one of our pediatricians by calling Timberlake Pediatrics at (916) 688-5040.