Allergies Specialist

What are allergies?

Allergies are the body’s improper response to substances. The body naturally defends itself against substances it thinks are harmful. This is helpful in most cases. When an infectious bacteria enters your system, for example, your body’s immune response attacks it, minimizing your chances of getting sick.

But in the case of allergies, your body has improperly identified a substance — called an allergen — as harmful even though it isn’t. Consider pollen allergies, for example: 

The pollen enters the person’s body, and their immune response kicks into action, working to remove that pollen from the body via sneezing, a runny nose, and other immune responses. But because the pollen isn’t actually harmful, all of these symptoms are unnecessary. 

There are different types of allergies. Some of the most common include:

• Food allergies
• Hay fever
• Allergic reactions to insect bites and stings
• Contact dermatitis (the skin’s allergic reaction to contact with certain substances)
• Drug allergies

The symptoms for each type of allergy vary. Hay fever, for example, is characterized by sneezing, itchy eyes and nose, and a runny or stuffy nose. 

Contact dermatitis is marked by a rash or hives at the site where the allergen came into contact with the skin. Food allergy symptoms can range from a stomachache to facial swelling to anaphylactic shock, which is life-threatening.

How are allergies diagnosed?

If your child is living with allergies, you want to get them relief. And the first step is identifying their specific allergy triggers so the Pediatric Associates of Kentwood team can offer them the right treatment to alleviate their symptoms.

To hone in on the allergens that are causing their allergic reactions, Pediatric Associates of Kentwood uses allergy testing. With a simple scratch test, they can accurately diagnose your child’s allergies. 

How are allergies treated?

There are a number of different allergy treatments. In some cases of food allergies or contact dermatitis, avoiding the allergen is an easy, effective way for your child to get relief. In other cases, allergy medications help them manage symptoms so they can enjoy their favorite activities without any sneezing, itchiness, or rashes. 

Once your child’s allergies have been diagnosed, your child's Pediatric Associates of Kentwood provider tailors allergy treatment to them, helping them get fast, effective relief. 

Don’t let allergies impact the way your kids feel. Help them find relief by calling Pediatric Associates of Kentwood or scheduling an appointment online today.