Do you suspect your child has an allergy? If so, it is time to visit Joliet Pediatrics, where Dr. Sherahsan Niazi and Dr. Mark Joseph Brinkman will conduct thorough testing for allergies in Joliet, IL. With these caring doctors, your child will have access to proper allergy management to help reduce symptoms and live a better quality of life.

What Are Allergies?

The purpose of your immune system is to fight off infection, but it can overreact, particularly to anything it doesn't recognize. Unfortunately, what one's immune system may consider a foreign substance is normal for everyone else. As a result, allergies occur because of this overreaction. Common allergies include pet dander, mold, dust, pollen, and certain foods like shellfish or nuts. 

Signs Your Child Has an Allergy

Many allergies often develop in childhood and can reveal themselves in various symptoms. Does your child start sneezing or coughing after doing certain activities or being in certain areas? They may also develop itchy, watery eyes or a runny and stuffy nose. One of the most common signs of asthma is nighttime coughing, shortness of breath, and wheezing. Some allergies may also cause skin conditions like rashes or hives. Food allergies can also cause skin problems, an upset stomach, or diarrhea. Allergies can affect the sinuses and cause recurrent ear infections.

Managing Childhood Allergies

The first step in managing childhood allergies in Joliet, IL, is finding the triggers. A professional consultation with local pediatricians helps parents get to the root cause of what their child is dealing with and advises on creating a comfortable environment to avoid flare-ups. Your pediatrician may run a blood or skin patch test to narrow the allergen. If doctors suspect asthma, your child may do a spirometry test that involves breathing into a device to measure exhaled air or a Methacholine Challenge Test that involves breathing in a substance that can trigger symptoms.

Start by keeping your home clean and free from mold or pet dander and limiting other known allergens. Your pediatrician may also prescribe certain medications, ranging from an asthma inhaler to nasal sprays to antihistamines. Immunotherapy or allergy shots can be helpful for more severe allergies to help desensitize your child's immune system over time. Make sure you schedule and attend regular wellness checkups to ensure your child's health and overall immune system are improving.

Proper care for allergies can help prevent severe symptoms and reduce overall flare-ups. Luckily, Dr. Niazi and Dr. Brinkman can help with allergies in Joliet, IL, when you visit Joliet Pediatrics. Call (815) 513-0664 to learn more and schedule an appointment.