Kids who have allergies can find it challenging to remain active and engaged with their friends and family. Finding relief is important, and is possible through the providers at Town Center Pediatrics in Northborough, Massachusetts. If you’re concerned about your child’s symptoms or a reaction to certain substances, call our office to schedule an appointment.
Allergies are an impressive demonstration of the power of the human immune system. That said, it’s difficult to fully appreciate this response when your child is battling allergy symptoms.
In people with allergies, substances that are not innately harmful to humans trigger a strong immune reaction. Just as your immune system produces antibodies to fight off bacteria, viruses, and fungal infection, people with allergies create antibodies to launch an attack on substances that are not normally dangerous.
Every child has a unique experience with allergies. For some, symptoms are mild and require no special care. In other cases, symptoms can be overwhelming and even life-threatening.
Many different things can trigger an allergic reaction. These substances are called allergens, and while an individual without an allergy can touch, inhale, or ingest these substances with no problem, kids who are allergic to a particular allergen can experience significant symptoms after even the mildest exposure.
Some examples of common allergens include:
These are just a few of the more common allergens that can trigger a reaction in children and adults.
One of the most powerful ways to avoid allergic reactions is by learning which substances trigger an attack and taking steps to avoid exposure to that particular substance. This often takes time and can mean taking significant steps to create a safe environment at home or school.
Sublingual immunotherapy is a great way to reduce allergic reactions. This approach works by exposing your child to miniscule quantities of specific allergens. The idea is to train your child’s immune system to develop a tolerance for those allergens so that their immune reaction is muted or even eliminated.
Sublingual immunotherapy is administered by liquid drops placed under your child’s tongue each day. Over a period of four months the dosage is gradually increased, and after that point remains steady for the remainder of the treatment period. This approach can take more than two years to achieve full success, but the effects can be life-altering.
If you’d like more information on allergies and treatment options, call Town Center Pediatrics today to set up a visit.