“Should We Be Seeing an Allergist?”: Common Symptoms and Allergens
by Lauren N Thompson, MHS
As cold and flu season comes to an end and pollen counts continue to rise, you may be wondering if there’s more to your child’s frequent illnesses or unrelenting cough. An allergist may be able to help. An allergist, sometimes called an immunologist, is a medical doctor specializing in diagnosing and treating allergies, asthma, and related immune system conditions. They help identify allergy triggers and reduce symptoms to improve quality of life. “Allergists see patients with a wide range of symptoms,” said Dr. Duane Gels, board-certified allergist with Annapolis Allergy and Asthma . “Inflammation, in general,
membranes can lead to secondary bacterial sinus infections or pneumonia, potentially leading to poor academic performance and excessive school absences.” Common allergens at home, school, and after-school
settings: • Pollen • Animals • Dust
• Mold • Food • Medication
When initiating treatment with an allergist, Dr. Gels stresses the importance of noting your child’s frequency and severity of symptoms and how your child responds to home remedies or prescribed treatments. He also shared
is a natural response to infections caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, or parasites, helping our bodies fight these harmful invaders. Allergic inflammation is a specific kind of inflammation that occurs when our immune system mistakenly reacts to harmless environmental substances like pollen, dust, and pet dander.” Some symptoms are signs of internal allergic inflammation, like sneezing, while others are signs of both external and internal allergic inflammation, like hives. Children may not always complain about
some insight about whether or not skin testing is necessary when evaluating allergens. “Allergy skin testing is preferred over blood testing, as it tends to be more sensitive, although there are certain situations where blood testing can be helpful. Additionally, pulmonary function testing may be performed to assess lung performance,” said Dr.
Gels. Once
the
allergens families
are
identified, can work with their provider to consider avoidance strategies
and medication options. In cases where allergens, such as family pets, can’t be avoided, an allergist may recommend allergy immunotherapy in the form of oral drops or injections as a long-term solution. Dr. Gels explained that immunotherapy will improve your child’s immune tolerance to the allergen. It’s important to note some allergic reactions require emergency care. If your child exhibits trouble breathing, blueish skin, significant swelling of the tongue or lips, widespread hives, repetitive vomiting or severe diarrhea, or a combination of these, call 911. In addition to seeking treatment, the team at Annapolis Allergy and Asthma also recommends the supportive resources for parents of children with severe food allergies at Food Allergy Research and Education (FARE), foodallergy.org. Source(s): “Let’s Clear the Air,” Annapolis Allergy and Asthma, 02/03/25, https:// annapolisallergy.com/pollen/lets-clear-the-air/
symptoms in the same way adults do. Consider their sleep habits, attention at home and school, and recurring respiratory infections. Symptoms commonly seen in patients include: • Congestion
• Snoring • Chronic sleep problems • Problems concentrating • Post-nasal drip • Rashes • Hives • Itching
• Sneezing • Coughing • Wheezing • Persistent throat clearing • Difficulty breathing • Fatigue • Itchy, watery eyes
It’s important to consider your family health history as allergies tend to run in families. Dr. Gels explained, “Allergies can manifest as frequent infections, chronic congestion, and cough interrupting daily activities, including sports and sleep. Over time, swollen mucous
APRIL 2025 | 79
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