Allergy Testing, is it really necessary?

[arabeth]

My 6 year old w/ CF has recently developed sinus problems and the ENT has referred her to an allergist for allergy testing. Having been through that already with my older daughter (thou she was only 2 when it was done), I am very hesitant to go through with it. When my older daughter had allergy testing, it was prior to her CF diagnosis and it was a last result to find out why she was having so many lung problems. Of course, it was actually CF but we didn't know it at the time. I guess I am skeptical because I am not sure what good it would really do. If sinus problems are so common among CF patients, why would they think it was anything else? She has no other allergy symptoms, no wheezing or sneezing or anything else that I can think of. She has just been having lots of headaches and a really thick green runny nose. She will go on antibiotics for 14 days, it will clear up for about 3-4 days and then starts all over. We have done that for the last 3 months or so. She is now off the antibiotics and we are doing nasal washes and a steriod nasal spray. I guess my thought is, would the treatment really be any different as a result of the allergy testing? When my other daughter had it done, it was the worst procedure I've been through with her, and I've been to hell and back with that child. They did 42 sticks in her back and 38 injections in her arms. It was on her 2nd birthday. I'm really scared to go through that again. These kids go through so much already just trying to stay healthy. Anything I can prevent them from suffering through, I would be thrilled to do. Has anyone had allergy testing done that resulted in a positive change in their treatment routine? Is there really a reason to put her through this? Thanks much everyone!

 

[anonymous]

I guess that depends. If your family or your dd's father's family has a high incidence of allergies, allergy testing may be a good idea for a couple of reasons. First, you know what to avoid or when to treat (ie for dust mite allergy you use allergen covers, remove carpet, etc. For pollen allergies, if you know WHICH pollens cause problems, you know when to treat with antihistamines.) Second, if she is allergic, you can do allergy shots. If there's not much family history of allergies or you don't think you'd put her through allergy testing, then, it may very well be best not to test. Just my opinion<img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0">

 

[thefrogprincess]

Allergies could explain why the sinus symptoms are not clearing up. I would get the test because if allergies are the problem then it can be treated and she'll be a lot happier.