An important "trick" we have in the office is doing whatever has to be done to Mom, Dad, or even ourselves first. Shot? We have the parents roll up their sleeves and give them a shot of saline. Or a dummy scratch test. We might use our stethoscope on Dad's chest or Mom's back to put the child at ease, or allow the child to listen to ours.

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Asthma Allergies Children: A Parent's Guide
The world of allergies can certainly be a confusing one! The first thing to consider is whether you are dealing with environmental allergies (such as to pollen, cat, dog, etc.) versus food allergies (peanuts, shellfish, etc.).
In the case of environmental allergies that are easily identifiable (such as with the change of seasons or with pet exposure), your pediatrician can easily diagnose the problem and recommend a treatment plan. If symptoms fail to improve or worsen, it is reasonable to see a pediatric allergist to obtain further testing to confirm the allergen and to optimize management. This is critical because significant allergy symptoms that are left untreated can really affect a child's quality of life.
In the case of food allergies, it's a completely different story! As soon as a food allergy is suspected, you should consult your pediatrician. With a careful history and physical exam your pediatrician should be able to determine if further testing is needed. If your pediatrician suspects a food allergy she should refer you to a pediatric allergist to confirm the diagnosis and identify the allergens. A pediatric allergist is able to perform skin-prick and blood testing in the office. The results of these tests in combination with the child's history should provide a more definitive answer. Additionally, pediatric allergists are specially trained to manage food allergies and are knowledgeable about the latest research and treatment protocols.
It is critical to identify and treat food allergies immediately, because unlike environmental allergies, food allergies can be life threatening. While it is essential to see a pediatric allergist, you should always remember never to leave your pediatrician's office without proper instructions and a prescription for epinephrine!
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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.