What Does a Pediatric Allergist Do for a Child?

At Piniella Asthma + Allergy, our board-certified allergists specialize in diagnosing and treating allergies, asthma, and related conditions for children and adults. An allergist for children specializes in diagnosing and treating various allergies, such as environmental allergies, food allergies, and asthma. They use tests, such as skin or blood tests, to identify allergens that may trigger reactions in your child. This helps them understand the root cause of symptoms like sneezing, rashes, or breathing difficulties.

Once an allergist determines the allergens, they develop personalized treatment plans that may include medications, allergy shots, or other therapies. The goal is to reduce or eliminate allergic reactions, improve the child’s health, and help them lead a more comfortable life. The allergist also offers advice on how to avoid allergens and manage symptoms effectively.

At Piniella Asthma + Allergy, regular follow-up visits are part of our ongoing care, allowing us to monitor your child’s progress and make adjustments to their treatment plan as needed. Our goal is to help your child enjoy daily activities with fewer symptoms and improved overall health—so they can breathe easier and live better.

At Piniella Asthma + Allergy, our pediatric allergists utilize a comprehensive range of diagnostic tests to identify allergies and asthma triggers in children. One of the most commonly performed procedures in our office is the skin prick test. Pediatric allergists perform a variety of tests to identify allergens that may be triggering allergic reactions in children.  Common tests include skin tests, where small amounts of allergens are applied to the skin to observe reactions, and blood tests that measure the levels of specific antibodies in response to allergens.

These tests help the allergist pinpoint the exact substances causing symptoms like sneezing, wheezing, or skin rashes. In some cases, the allergist may also conduct patch tests for delayed allergic reactions or challenge tests to determine a child’s tolerance to specific foods or medications. These tests are carefully chosen based on the child’s symptoms and medical history, allowing the pediatric allergist to create a personalized treatment plan for managing allergies and improving the child’s quality of life.

We understand that allergy testing can be a new and sometimes intimidating experience for children and their families. A little preparation can go a long way to make your child’s visit smooth, comfortable, and successful.

• Explain the Process Simply

Before the appointment, explain to your child what to expect. Let them know that the medical team will perform simple tests to help figure out what’s causing their symptoms. Reassure them that these tests are safe, and you will be there to support them throughout the process.

• Medication Guidelines

Certain medications can affect the results of allergy tests. You will receive instructions on which medications to stop before the appointment and for how long. If there are any questions about your child’s medications, contact the office ahead of time for assistance.

• Getting Ready on Test Day

Dress your child in comfortable clothes that allow easy access to their arms or back, as these are the typical areas tested. Bringing along a favorite toy, book, or device can help distract and comfort your child during the visit.

• Comfort and Reassurance

Let your child know they might feel a small pinch or some itchiness, but it will only last for a short time. The medical staff will make sure your child feels safe and supported during the test. Staying calm yourself will help your child feel more at ease.

• After the Test

Follow any post-test instructions provided by the medical team, such as monitoring the skin for reactions or when to restart any paused medications. If there are any concerns after the test, contact the office for assistance.

With a little preparation and the compassionate care at Piniella Asthma + Allergy, you can help your child feel more comfortable and confident about their allergy testing experience.

We believe that children can benefit from allergy and asthma evaluation at any age—even in infancy—if there are any signs or symptoms suggestive of allergies. A child should see an allergist if they show symptoms of allergies, such as frequent sneezing, itchy eyes, skin rashes, or difficulty breathing. While there’s no specific age for a child to visit an allergist, it’s generally a good idea to consult one if your child experiences persistent or severe allergic reactions. If your child has a family history of allergies or asthma, it may also be beneficial to see an allergist at a younger age.

Early testing and diagnosis can help manage symptoms and improve your child’s quality of life. Our team at Piniella Asthma + Allergy is experienced in evaluating and managing children with a wide range of allergic concerns, including severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), food allergies, and asthma. We are dedicated to providing compassionate, individualized care to help your child breathe easier and live healthier. Schedule an appointment with Piniella Asthma + Allergy to ensure your child receives the specialized attention they deserve.

At Piniella Asthma + Allergy, Dr. Carlos J. Piniella, MD, provides specialized pediatric allergy services designed to help children breathe easier and feel better. As a board-certified allergist and immunologist, Dr. Piniella focuses on identifying the root causes of allergic reactions in children, including seasonal allergies, food sensitivities, eczema, and asthma. His approach combines advanced diagnostic testing with compassionate care, ensuring every child receives a personalized treatment plan tailored to their unique needs.

Dr. Piniella understands that managing allergies can be stressful for families, so he takes the time to explain each step of the evaluation and treatment process in simple, reassuring terms. From skin testing and environmental control strategies to immunotherapy and ongoing care, he works closely with parents to create a safe, comfortable, and supportive experience for their children. Under Dr. Piniella’s guidance, families can expect attentive, long-term allergy management that promotes better health and improved quality of life.

For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve you in Coral Gables FL and Palmetto Bay FL. We serve patients from Coral Gables FL, Palmetto Bay FL, Westchester FL, Brownsville FL, Kendall FL, Pinecrest FL, Richmond West FL, and Goulds FL.