Allergies
There are many allergens which can cause allergic rhinitis. Some are seasonal (occurring only at certain times of the year) or perennial (occurring all year round). The most common allergens which cause allergic rhinitis are dust mite, cat and dog dander, cockroaches, molds, and tree, grass or weed pollens.
At the Center for Asthma and Allergy Disease, testing is done to determine if a child's immune system will react to a specific allergen. We offer both a CAP RAST blood test and skin testing. In skin testing, a small amount of each allergen is pricked onto the skin. After 15-20 minutes, the strength of an allergic reaction can be measured. The results of the allergy testing will provide important information on which allergens cause symptoms.
We also offer allergy immunotherapy, also called allergy shots, for children with allergy symptoms which can not be controlled through avoidance and medications. Allergy shots work by decreasing the sensitivity towards specific allergens.
Please click here for more information on allergies.