Pediatric Allergy and Immunology
Pediatric allergy and immunology focuses on diagnosing and managing allergies, asthma, eczema, and other immune system disorders in children. Pediatric allergist-immunologists identify triggers and intervene with preventive and treatment strategies to reduce symptoms and reactions. Allergies and immunologic conditions affect millions of children globally, often beginning in childhood and being highly treatable. Treatment may involve avoiding triggers and using medications like intranasal steroids or antihistamines. Allergy immunotherapy, or allergy shots, can decrease sensitivity to allergens, offering lasting relief. In children with allergy-triggered asthma, shots can reduce symptoms like watery eyes, runny nose, coughing, and wheezing. However, they're not recommended for children under five, and food allergies aren't treated with immunotherapy. Pediatric allergist-immunologists are MDs or DOs with specialized training in these conditions.