Pediatric Allergy Testing

Pediatric Allergy Testing

Allergy and sinus conditions are common in children, whose sinuses continue to develop well into the teen years. Allergy and sinus symptoms are similar, making a proper diagnosis a bit challenging. An ENT specialist can recommend diagnostic testing to help pinpoint the cause of what is ailing your child. 

Allergies can contribute to persistent congestion, sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, postnasal drainage, recurring sinus symptoms and disrupted sleep. Because similar symptoms may have other causes, evaluation begins with a detailed medical history and examination. When appropriate, targeted testing can help identify specific allergens and guide a treatment plan for your child.

Common Causes of Child Allergies

When allergies are to blame, the immune system responds to a perceived threat by flooding the bloodstream with chemicals called histamines, which attack the offending substance but cause inflammation and swelling of the airways in the process. Common allergy triggers include pollen, mold, animal dander, dust mites, chemicals, medications, and certain foods.

Allergy Symptoms in Children

Symptoms of allergy and sinus conditions include runny nose, sneezing, stuffiness, coughing, sore throat, wheezing, headaches, snoring, and itchy eyes (these may also be watery) and nose. In addition to a physical examination, your child’s doctor will carefully inspect the ears, nose, and throat for signs of infection. Skin and blood tests will likely be administered to determine whether an allergen trigger is responsible.

Treating Allergies in Children

When your child is diagnosed with allergies and avoiding the allergen trigger isn’t possible, treatment consists of a variety of medications. These include antihistamines, decongestants, nasal corticosteroid sprays, eye drops, and prescription drugs. Severe cases that don’t respond to medical treatment may require immunotherapy, usually delivered through weekly injections (i.e., allergy shots). This enables the body to build up a tolerance to the allergen over time, bringing long-term symptom relief.

Pediatric Sublingual Immunotherapy

SLIT, or sublingual immunotherapy, is an increasingly popular method of treating allergies. It is similar to immunotherapy (allergy shots), but instead of needles, the medicine is taken orally. It’s ideal for pediatric patients whose allergies most likely haven’t progressed to an advanced stage, and can be helpful in preventing asthma in some patients.