Pediatric Allergy

Diagnosis, Treatment, and Long-Term Management of Allergic Diseases in Children

At our Pediatric Allergy Clinic, the diagnosis, treatment, and long-term follow-up of allergic diseases are carried out according to current scientific guidelines. Our goal is to ensure accurate diagnosis and effective management of allergic conditions so that children can lead healthy, active, and happy lives.

What Is an Allergy?

The immune system protects the body against foreign and harmful substances. However, in some individuals the immune system may overreact to substances that are normally harmless. This exaggerated immune response is called an allergy.

Substances that trigger allergic reactions are known as allergens. Allergic reactions may present with various symptoms, ranging from mild skin findings to severe, life-threatening conditions. In essence, allergy is a hypersensitivity reaction of the immune system.

Why Do Allergies Develop in Children?

Allergic diseases are more common in boys during early childhood, whereas they become more common in girls after adolescence.

Genetic predisposition plays an important role in the development of allergies. However, not every child with a genetic tendency will develop an allergy.

Environmental factors encountered both before and after birth may also influence the development of allergic diseases.

Factors that may contribute include:

• Dietary habits
• Exposure to cigarette smoke
• Air pollution
• Infections
• Contact with natural environments
• Exposure to allergens

Conditions Managed in Our Clinic

At our Pediatric Allergy Clinic, we diagnose and treat the following conditions:

• Asthma
• Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
• Atopic dermatitis (allergic eczema)
• Food allergies
• Drug allergies
• Anaphylaxis (severe life-threatening allergic reactions)

Symptoms of Allergic Diseases

Allergic diseases may affect different systems of the body.

Skin Symptoms

• Itchy raised rashes (urticaria / hives)
• Eczema-like skin lesions
• Redness, dryness, and scaling

Respiratory Symptoms

• Runny nose, itching, nasal congestion, and sneezing
• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness
• Easy fatigue during exercise

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Bloody stools
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Refusal to eat

In some cases, more than one body system may be involved, resulting in anaphylaxis, which requires immediate medical attention.

Diagnostic Methods

Diagnosis begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination. When necessary, the following tests may be performed:

• Skin prick tests
• Measurement of allergen-specific IgE levels in the blood
• Pulmonary function tests
• Provocation (challenge) tests performed under controlled conditions

Provocation tests are carried out by administering small doses of the suspected allergen under close medical supervision.

Common Allergic Conditions in Children

Asthma

Asthma is a chronic disease characterized by airway hypersensitivity.

Symptoms may include:

• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness
• Wheezing

Symptoms may be triggered by allergens, cigarette smoke, air pollution, infections, cold air, or exercise.

Treatment

• Controller medications to reduce airway inflammation
• Reliever medications when necessary
• Avoidance of triggering factors

With regular follow-up and proper treatment, children with asthma can lead normal and active lives.

Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever)

After exposure to allergens, symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, itching, and nasal congestion may occur. Watery and itchy eyes may also accompany these symptoms.

If untreated, allergic rhinitis may cause:

• Sleep disturbances
• Difficulty concentrating
• Decreased school performance

Treatment options include:

• Nasal sprays
• Oral medications
• Eye drops
• Allergen avoidance strategies
• Immunotherapy for suitable patients

Atopic Dermatitis (Allergic Eczema)

Atopic dermatitis typically begins in early childhood and is characterized by recurrent episodes of itchy eczema.

Flare-ups may be triggered by:

• Dry skin
• Sweating
• Stress
• Certain foods
• Environmental allergens

Treatment includes:

• Regular use of moisturizers
• Avoidance of triggering factors
• Appropriate topical creams during flare-ups

When used for a short period under medical supervision, corticosteroid creams are safe and effective.

Food Allergies

Food allergies may present with:

• Eczema
• Urticaria (hives)
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Difficulty swallowing
• Anaphylaxis

Accurate diagnosis is essential, as unnecessary dietary restrictions may lead to growth problems and nutritional deficiencies.

Treatment includes:

• Eliminating the responsible food from the diet
• Provocation testing when necessary
• Informing family and school environments
• Preventing cross-contamination

Allergen Immunotherapy (Allergy Vaccination)

Allergen immunotherapy is the only treatment that can modify the natural course of allergic diseases. The treatment is based on the regular administration of small doses of the allergen to reduce the immune system’s exaggerated response.

The goal is to develop long-term tolerance to the allergen causing symptoms.

Immunotherapy may be administered:

• As injections (initially weekly, then monthly)
• As daily sublingual therapy placed under the tongue

Treatment generally lasts 4–5 years, although benefits often begin within the first year.

Eligibility for immunotherapy is determined through specialist evaluation.

Persistent Cough in Children

Persistent cough is common in childhood and is often not associated with a serious disease. After viral infections, the cough reflex may remain sensitive for a period of time.

However, in some cases persistent cough may be related to:

• Asthma
• Allergic rhinitis
• Gastroesophageal reflux

If no serious underlying condition is identified:

• Unnecessary medications are avoided
• Clinical monitoring is recommended

Cough suppressants are generally not recommended for children, and herbal remedies should not be used without medical advice.

Our Treatment Approach

The main principles of our pediatric allergy treatment approach include:

• Avoidance of allergens
• Preventive treatment strategies
• Proper management of acute attacks
• Family education and regular follow-up

Many allergic diseases may improve over time. Even when the condition persists, children can lead healthy and active lives with appropriate treatment and precautions.

Accurate diagnosis through detailed evaluation, identification of allergens with appropriate tests, and continuous monitoring with close collaboration between physician and family are essential for successful management.