Is It Asthma or Allergies?

Allergies and asthma can pose significant risks to individuals, affecting their daily lives and overall well-being. Allergies can lead to severe reactions, ranging from skin rashes to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Asthma causes breathing difficulties, wheezing, and chest tightness, which can be life-threatening during an asthma attack. However, visiting TRI-Valley Pediatrics in Pleasanton and San Ramon, CA offers numerous benefits.

Our specialized care and expertise in pediatric allergies and asthma enable accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and effective management. Our doctors at TRI-Valley Pediatrics provide comprehensive support, including allergen testing, immunotherapy, and education, promoting better health, improved quality of life, and reduced risks associated with asthma and allergies.

Is It Asthma or Allergies?

Differentiating between asthma and allergies can be challenging, but indicators can help distinguish the two. Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by recurring wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath episodes, often triggered by exercise or exposure to allergens or irritants.

Meanwhile, allergies involve an immune response to specific allergens, leading to sneezing, itching, runny nose, and watery eyes. If your child experiences symptoms primarily during the summer or spring seasons or after exposure to known allergens like pollen, it suggests allergies.

However, if symptoms persist throughout the year, worsen with physical activity, or are accompanied by recurrent chest tightness or wheezing, asthma may be the underlying cause. Consult our pediatrician when your child's symptoms significantly impact their daily activities, disrupt sleep, or require frequent use of rescue medications like inhalers. For example, schedule a visit if your child consistently struggles to breathe during physical activities like running or experiences frequent nighttime coughing fits.

Don't Suffer: Discover Your Treatment Options

Allergy treatment options may include a combination of medication, avoidance strategies, and immunotherapy. Asthma treatment typically involves a combination of long-term controller medications to manage and prevent symptoms, such as inhaled corticosteroids, and quick-relief medications like short-acting bronchodilators to provide immediate relief during asthma attacks.

Immunotherapy, including allergy shots or sublingual tablets, can gradually desensitize the immune system to specific allergens. It's crucial to seek the help of a pediatrician if a child's allergies in Pleasanton and San Ramon, CA, are persistent, severe, or significantly impact their daily activities, and sleep. Our pediatrician can diagnose, create a customized treatment plan, and offer ongoing monitoring and support.

Please explore our website to learn about the conditions we treat and the services provided. Are seasonal allergies taking a toll on your child's well-being? TRI-Valley Pediatrics in Pleasanton and San Ramon, CA, offers treatment for allergies tailored to young patients. If your child experiences persistent symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, or breathing difficulties, schedule a visit by calling (925) 460-8444 for our Pleasanton office and (925) 380-6230 for our San Ramon location.