Asthma & Allergies
As leading pediatricians in Los Gatos, we offer medical treatment for common respiratory ailments including asthma and/or allergies.The doctors at Los Gatos Pediatrics have extensive experience diagnosing and treating asthma and allergies. We provide up-to-date and effective treatments to relieve symptoms. We also work with our patients to prevent more serious side-effects.
Asthma & Allergeis Q&A
What is asthma?
Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease. It causes the linings of the airway to become overly sensitive to irritants. This sensitivity causes inflammation which constricts the airways creating excessive mucus production. Breathing becomes impaired as a result. Asthma can be triggered by irritants and allergens. Common allergens are dust, pollen, dander and smoke. Asthma can also be triggered by colds, flus, extremes in temperature and physical activity.
What causes allergies?
When triggered, allergies occur when the body’s immune system overreacts. Triggers include pet dander, dust, smoke, pollen, mold, plants, detergents, and certain types of foods. For some sufferers, medicines may also trigger allergic reactions. Respiratory symptoms may mimic asthmatic symptoms, and also cause other reactions such as rashes, hives and digestive problems.
How can I tell if my child has allergies or asthma?
To know if your child has allergies or asthma, have them evaluated by a pediatrician or specialist. Asthma often causes wheezing during breathing. The pediatrician will carefully listen carefully to your child’s lungs to determine if these sounds are present. Asthma may be present without these sounds, so a careful pediatric evaluation and review of symptoms and what your child is important for an accurate diagnosis.
Allergies may be diagnosed with special testing. This is known as skin patch testing and it is used to determine the cause of the allergic reaction.
How are allergies and asthma treated?
Allergic symptoms include hives, runny nose and itchy eyes. It is typically treated with antihistamines. Severe allergic reactions may require an injection of epinephrine.
Asthma is often treated with an inhaler. The inhaler is used to deliver medication to open the airways and improve breathing.
For more information on allergies and asthma, check out Healthy Kids Learning Hub as well as the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Also check out our Services and Pediatric Resources pages for specific issues additional information.