What conditions does a paediatric allergist & immunologist treat?
The diseases and conditions treated by a paediatric allergist and immunologist include:
- Food allergies (e.g. cow’s milk protein allergy, lactose, egg, peanut)
- Skin allergies (e.g. eczema, atopic dermatitis, urticaria)
- Respiratory problems (e.g. asthma, hay fever, sinusitis)
- Severe allergic reactions to food, medicines or insect stings (anaphylaxis)
- Immune disorders (symptoms may include thrush, abscesses, diarrhoea, recurrent infections)
Which subspecialties are included under paediatric allergy & immunology?
Paediatric allergy and immunology is in fact a subspecialty in itself, and is a subspecialty of paediatrics. However, paediatric allergists and immunologists can choose to focus their area of study or interest on allergic reactions, food allergies, respiratory problems, food intolerances or immune disorders.
When should you see a paediatric allergist & immunologist?
You should take your child to see a paediatric allergist and immunologist if they are experiencing recurrent infections, diarrhoea, thrush or abscesses. These symptoms may indicate an underlying immune disorder. Your child should also be seen by a paediatric allergist and immunologist if they experience allergic reactions to any substances, develop skin rashes that resemble eczema, or if they are sneezing and coughing a lot.