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Diseases 101

What an allergist/immunologist can offer:

  • An allergist/immunologist can improve the quality of life in patients suffering from chronic rhinitis.
  • An allergist/immunologist is highly trained to interpret the history and allergy diagnostic tests which help to make a proper diagnosis.
  • An allergist/immunologist has the expertise to provide the proper advice with regard to allergen and irritant avoidance measures.
  • An allergist/immunologist is an expert in providing allergen immunotherapy that may be helpful for people who do not find medication use satisfactory.
  • An allergist/immunologist has a great deal of knowledge about a variety of non-allergic conditions that are associated with recurrent rhinosinusitis.

The AAAAI suggests parents use the following checklist on the next visit to their child's allergist/immunologist:

If your child has symptoms of allergic rhinitis, an allergist/immunologist can help determine which specific allergens are triggering his or her reaction.
Once your child's allergic triggers are determined, your physician or nurse will work with you to develop a plan to avoid the allergens that trigger your child's symptoms. For example, if you child is allergic to dust mites or indoor mold, you will want to take steps to reduce these allergens in your house as much as possible.
Even if symptoms seem to be localized to the sinuses, the sinuses are not always infected. To make a correct diagnosis, a physician will take a detailed history and perform a physical examination.
Sinus infections generally require a combination of therapies. In addition to prescribing an antibiotic when the sinusitis is caused by bacterial infection, your physician may prescribe a medication to reduce blockage or control allergies.
Several non-drug treatments can also be helpful. These include breathing in hot, moist air, applying hot packs and washing the nasal cavities with salt water.
Although colds are the most common cause of acute sinusitis, it is more likely that people with allergies will develop sinusitis. Allergies can trigger inflammation of the sinuses and nasal mucous linings.

Print off a PDF checklist

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