Pediatric Allergy Testing in Harford County, MD
What are Allergies?
Allergies start when your immune system mistakes a normal substance for a dangerous intruder in your body. Your system responds by attacking the intruder, or allergen. The body will produce histamines, which create allergy symptoms.
Our team at Towson Pediatrics is aware of the difficulties that allergies may cause for kids and their families. Allergies can cause a wide range of symptoms, from minor discomfort to severe responses. They are caused when the immune system mistakenly misidentifies harmless substances as threats.
With a focus on pediatric allergy testing, Dr. Assaad and her committed staff provide thorough services to detect certain allergens that may be harming your child’s health. We are dedicated to provide precise diagnoses using cutting-edge testing techniques, covering everything from insect, medication, skin, and food allergies to seasonal and airborne triggers. Schedule an appointment at our pediatric clinics in Towson and Fallston.
What Are The Symptoms of Having An Allergy?
Allergies can range from mild to severe and can produce minor irritation or result in anaphylactic shock, a life-threatening condition.
Some common allergy symptoms include:
- Sneezing
- Wheezing
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Swelling
- Chest tightness
- Coughing
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Rash
- Itchy skin
What Are Common Allergies in Children
People are allergic to a variety of substances, but there are some common triggers:
- Seasonal: Reacts to something in the environment during a particular time of year
- Airborne: Pollen, animal dander, dust mites and mold
- Insect: Bee stings
- Medicine: Most commonly seen with penicillin and penicillin-based antibiotics
- Skin: Latex, lotions
- Food: Eggs, fish, milk, peanuts, shellfish, soy, tree nuts, and wheat
How Are Allergies Treated in Children?
Accurate diagnosis is the first step towards managing your allergies effectively. We offer a variety of allergy testing options, including:
- Skin Prick Testing: This test involves applying a small amount of allergen extract to your skin to identify specific allergens triggering your symptoms.
- Blood Tests: We perform comprehensive blood tests to measure your body’s immune response to allergens.
We will work with you to get you the answers you deserve. It can be frustrating to deal with the unknown, especially when you experience allergy symptoms.
Manage Your Child’s Allergies
Dr. Assaad is here to provide you with the knowledge, resources, and personalized treatment plans you need to effectively manage your allergies. We provide guidance on allergen avoidance strategies to minimize your exposure to allergens at home, work, and in other environments. Schedule an appointment for your child at one of our pediatric clinics.