WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE KIDSALLERGY CLINIC

At the allergy clinic you will see a specifically trained allergy specialist who is also a fully trained paediatrician.

• An initial allergy consultation, including allergy tests and devising a tailored management plan, usually takes 45-60 minutes.
• Follow up consultations take 30 minutes.
• General paediatric consultations take about 30 minutes.

In most cases, it is advisable to stop antihistamines at least 3 days before seeing an allergy specialist in case they would like to perform allergy tests.

The allergist will take a detailed history; they will then go on to examine the patient for general health, growth and to check for signs of allergic conditions such as eczema or asthma. They will then decide whether allergy tests are necessary or not, and “tailor” the testing pattern according to the individual patient.

Allergy tests include skin prick tests, blood tests, lung function tests and sometimes “challenges.” Usually the challenges are booked for another day as this is generally a 4 hour procedure. Some of the delayed type food allergies such as eosinophilic oesophagitis will need to be diagnosed by a biopsy performed under anaesthetic, to look for allergy cells.

Once a diagnosis has been confirmed, a specific management plan will be devised for the patient. We shall also communicate the diagnosis and plan to your GP/regular doctor.

For food allergies, an important part in the management is also played by a dietician, preferably one who has interest and skill in food allergy. The dietician will give you tips on how to avoid the allergen, read food labels, find good alternatives, and make sure the diet is nutritionally complete to allow optimal functioning, growth and development.