What Does a Pediatric Allergist in Lawrenceville Do for a Child?

Preparing your child for allergy testing is easier than you might think, and a little communication goes a long way. First, it is crucial to stop any antihistamines or allergy medications at least five to seven days before the appointment, as these can interfere with the test results. Your doctor will provide a specific list of medications to avoid.

Next, explain the process in simple, child-friendly terms. Let them know the doctor will do a “scratch” or “poke” test on their back or arm, which feels like a tiny tickle or a mosquito bite, but there are no scary needles involved. On the day of the visit, dress them in comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and bring their favorite comforting items, such as a stuffed animal, a tablet, or a book. Having familiar distractions helps keep them calm and occupied while you wait for the results to develop.

A child can see a board-certified allergist at absolutely any age, from newborn infants to growing teenagers. There is no minimum age requirement for allergy testing or treatment. In fact, early intervention is often highly beneficial. For infants and toddlers, you might consult an allergist if you notice signs of severe eczema, persistent wheezing, or immediate reactions when introducing new solid foods, such as cow’s milk, eggs, or peanuts.

For older school-aged children, a visit is recommended if they develop chronic seasonal sniffles, recurring sinus infections, or trouble breathing during sports and physical activities. An expert pediatric allergist has the specialized training and gentle diagnostic tools necessary to evaluate and treat patients no matter how young they are. If your child’s symptoms are disrupting their sleep, diet, or overall quality of life, do not wait—scheduling an evaluation early can safely set them up for a healthier future.

A pediatric allergist specializes in diagnosing, treating, and managing allergies, asthma, and immune system disorders in children. Because a child’s growing body processes allergies differently than an adult’s, these specialists use gentle, age-appropriate diagnostic tools, such as skin prick testing, blood work, or supervised oral food challenges, to safely pinpoint exact environmental, food, or chemical triggers.

Once a precise diagnosis is made, the allergist works closely with your family to develop a comprehensive, customized treatment plan. This often includes practical trigger avoidance strategies, prescribing appropriate rescue and daily control medications, or offering advanced therapies like allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots or drops) to build long-term tolerance.

Beyond treating immediate symptoms like chronic coughing, severe eczema, or anaphylaxis, an allergist provides vital education. They equip parents and caregivers with clear emergency action plans, ensuring your child can safely navigate their environment and confidently participate in everyday activities.

Our board-certified allergists, Dr. Jon E. Stahlman, MD, and Dr. Deidre D. Crocker, MD, will provide detailed instructions on how to prepare for allergy testing prior to the appointment. Allergy tests can be performed as skin prick tests, patch tests, or blood tests. Allergy testing typically takes place at an allergy & asthma center and is conducted by an allergist who specializes in treating allergies and asthma in children. During the appointment, the allergist will discuss any symptoms your child is having and order a test to identify triggers if necessary. Once all results are received, the allergist will create a plan of care that includes lifestyle guidance, medications as needed, and other management strategies. By taking these steps with the help of an allergist, you can ensure proper management of your child’s asthma.

Allergies and asthma can be challenging to manage, but Allergy & Asthma Centers are here to help. Our team of allergists specializes in diagnosing allergies and providing comprehensive care for children with allergies or asthma. We provide detailed instructions on how to prepare for allergy testing as well as emotional support for families dealing with allergies or asthma. Our Allergy & Asthma Center is dedicated to ensuring the best possible care for our patients so that they can live healthy lives despite their condition. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. Our clinic is located at 565 Old Norcross Rd, Lawrenceville, GA 30046. We serve patients from Lawrenceville GA, Snellville GA, Suwanee GA, Dacula GA, Grayson GA, Duluth GA, and the surrounding areas.