If your kid has allergies or you suspect problems with immune system, a pediatric allergist/immunologist has specific training to treat your child. Children's immune system defends against infections. If your child has allergies, his immune system directs inappropriate immune response to things that are generally not harmful.
Common allergens are:

• mold
• spores,
• insect stings,
•  

Pet dander,

• pollen,
• dust,
• food, and
• medications

The allergic reaction may cause his immune system to over-react to cause health issues such as bronchial asthma, hives, hay fever, eczema (a type of itchy rash), or sometimes potentially life threatening condition called anaphylaxis.

Sometimes, if children's immune system is not reacting appropriately, they may be affected from
repetitive, severe, and/or unusual infections. Sinusitis (infection of the sinuses), pneumonia (infection of the lung), thrush (a fungus/yeast infection in the mouth or genitalia), and abscesses (accumulation of pus around an infected tissue) are some of the common examples.
A pediatric allergist/immunologist diagnose and treats these allergies as well as immune system problems.

0.1.1. What type of training do pediatric allergists/immunologists get?

Pediatric allergists/immunologists are physicians who have had
• At least 4 years of medical school, followed by
• 3 years of  pediatric residency training, and then
• At least 2 to 3 more years of study in an allergy and immunology program
• All Allergist/Immunologist are required to pass an exam to get certification from the American Board of
Allergy and Immunology

Pediatric allergists/immunologists treat children from newborn through the adolescent years. The specialist training in pediatric allergy and immunology provide expertise in dealing with the unique medical needs of children who have allergies and immune system problems.

0.1.2. What treatments options do pediatric allergists/immunologists offer?

Pediatric allergists/immunologists often offer treatment in the following condition:
• Hay fever (allergic rhinitis)
• Sinusitis
• Asthma
• Eczema (also called atopic dermatitis)
• Hives (urticaria)
• Severe reactions to foods, insect stings,
and medications (anaphylaxis)
• Immune conditions can cause the following:
– repetitive sinusitis, pneumonia, or chronic
diarrhea
– Thrush that does not go away and repetitive abscesses
– Severe, uncommon infections

Pediatric allergists/immunologists diagnose allergic disorders with special testing.
Newer forms of these tests may be almost painless. Treatment may be a combination of limiting exposure to allergens that cause symptoms, immunotherapy (allergy shots), or medication. Diagnostic tests and treatments also are available for various disorders of immune system.

0.1.3. Where can I find a pediatric allergist/immunologist?

Pediatric allergists/immunologists practice in a variety of clinical settings like children’s hospitals, university medical centers and private clinics. Ask your pediatrician to guide you or arrange consultation with an allergist/immunologist who primarily treats children.

Remember children are not just small adults. They cannot always verbalize their problems. They may not be able to answer medical questions. They may not be able to be calm and cooperative during clinic visit.
Pediatric allergists/immunologists have training to make children relax and cooperative.