Allergies
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Valencia Pediatrics
Pediatrics located in High Desert, Victorville, CA
At Valencia Pediatrics, we help children find relief from allergy symptoms so they can feel their best at home, at school, and at play. Rainilda P. Valencia, MD, and our caring team—including Micaela Marin-Tucker, PA-C; Megan Reynolds, CPNP-PC; and Maggie S. Valencia, FNP-C—provide personalized evaluation and management of seasonal and year-round allergies.
We work closely with families to identify potential triggers, manage symptoms, and develop a care plan that fits each child’s needs. When advanced testing or specialty care is needed, we coordinate referrals to allergy specialists. Serving Victorville, Hesperia, Apple Valley, and the surrounding High Desert communities, we are here to answer your questions and help your child feel more comfortable.
Allergies Q & A
What are allergies?
Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to a substance that is usually harmless. These substances, called allergens, may include:
- Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds
- Dust mites, mold, and pet dander
- Foods such as milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, sesame, fish, and shellfish
- Venom from insect stings
- Certain medications
Some allergies cause seasonal symptoms, while others can affect children throughout the year. (healthychildren.org)
Cigarette smoke and strong fragrances can also irritate a child’s nose and airways, but they are generally irritants rather than allergens. (aaaai.org)
What are the symptoms of allergies?
Symptoms vary depending on the trigger and may include:
- Sneezing or a runny, stuffy, or itchy nose
- Itchy, red, or watery eyes
- Coughing or wheezing
- Hives, itching, or swelling
- Stomach pain, vomiting, or diarrhea, particularly with food allergies
Allergies can also worsen asthma symptoms. Some allergic reactions can become severe and require immediate emergency care. (healthychildren.org)
How are allergies diagnosed?
At Valencia Pediatrics, our care team starts by reviewing your child’s symptoms, medical history, possible triggers, and physical examination. Not every child needs allergy testing.
When testing is appropriate, we may recommend targeted blood tests or coordinate a referral to an allergy specialist for further evaluation, which may include skin-prick testing. Results must be considered alongside your child’s history—a positive test alone does not necessarily mean your child has a food allergy. (healthychildren.org)
What treatments are available for allergies?
Treatment depends on your child’s age, symptoms, and allergy triggers. We work with your family to develop a personalized plan that may include:
- Reducing exposure: Practical steps to limit contact with identified allergens at home and school.
- Symptom relief: Age-appropriate antihistamines, nasal sprays, or allergy eye drops.
- Asthma management: Inhaled medications when needed for associated asthma symptoms.
- Food allergy guidance: Avoiding confirmed food allergens while supporting balanced nutrition.
- Emergency planning: Prescribed epinephrine and a written action plan for children at risk of severe reactions.
- Specialist care: Referral for additional evaluation or treatment when symptoms are persistent, severe, or difficult to control. (healthychildren.org, aaaai.org)
When is an allergic reaction an emergency?
Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. Warning signs may include difficulty breathing, throat or tongue swelling, trouble swallowing, dizziness, or fainting.
If you suspect anaphylaxis, give your child’s prescribed epinephrine immediately, if available, and call 911—even if symptoms improve. Antihistamines and asthma inhalers do not replace epinephrine for anaphylaxis. (healthychildren.org)
For allergy concerns that are not an emergency, call or text Valencia Pediatrics to request an appointment. Our team is here to help your family understand your child’s symptoms and find a plan that supports their comfort and well-being.
