Allergy & Asthma Center

Reasons to see a specialist

• Recent severe asthma episode or allergic reaction
• Any visits to the hospital or emergency room for breathing or allergy-related issues
• Frequent need for oral steroid tablets or syrup
• Sleep disturbances, not able to exercise, or missing school often
• Complicating conditions (i.e. sinusitis, acid reflux, eczema, obesity or frequent infections)
• Medication side effects
• Seasonal symptoms getting worse

What can I expect?

• To be seen by a specialist right away
• To be fully taken care of
• The issue to be managed in its entirety
• Intentional time with our specialist (similar to a family doctor)

What do specialists provide?

• Help to identify the child’s allergy and asthma triggers.
• State of the art diagnostic testing and evaluation of lung function.
• Diagnosis of underlying lung disease or other respiratory conditions.
• Treadmill exercise testing when appropriate.
• Examination of the airways (flexible bronchoscopy) under anesthesia in appropriate circumstances.
• Knowledge of treatment options. A written treatment program with an action plan to help parents and the primary care provider respond more effectively to worsening symptoms.
• Ongoing monitoring of treatment goals.
• Effective communication with the primary care physician or nurse practitioner regarding the child’s treatment and progress.

How do I know if my child’s asthma symptoms are uncontrolled?

The Childhood Asthma Control Test is a way to help your child’s healthcare provider determine if your child’s asthma symptoms are well controlled. You can share the results with your child’s healthcare provider.