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Asthma & Allergies

Noosha Shaheedy, MD, FAAP Our Services Asthma & Allergies

Noosha Shaheedy, MD, FAAP

Pediatrician located in Century City, CA

At Shaheedy Medical Corporation, Dr. Noosha Shaheedy and her staff can diagnose and effectively treat both asthma and allergies. California residents who live in the greater Los Angeles and Century City areas are encouraged to visit the facility if their children experience repeated upper-respiratory issues, like allergies and asthma.

Asthma & Allergies Q&A

Are asthma and allergies related?

Asthma and allergies are both health issues that involve the lungs. Allergies, however, involve the entire upper-respiratory tract, and in some cases, the entire body. An allergic reaction within the body can induce an asthmatic, and in some cases, anaphylactic response within the lungs. Asthma causes congestion in the bronchial tubes and lungs making breathing difficult.

Anaphylaxis can be fatal if not treated immediately. During anaphylactic shock, the patient's airways swell shut cutting off the air supply to the lungs. An allergic reaction can have a variety of symptoms including a rash, sneezing, itchy eyes, runny nose, cough, and difficulty breathing.

How are allergy tests performed?

There are two types of allergy tests.  One is a blood draw that can test for food allergies and respiratory allergies.  This test can be ordered by Dr. Shaheedy and drawn in a laboratory.  Once the results are ready, Dr. Shaheedy can review the results and help in managing the allergies.  However, at times a more detailed test may be needed to be performed and that is when the patient is referred to an allergist.

What treatment options are available for asthma/allergy-related respiratory issues?

When a person is allergic to an allergen, several reactions will occur, including:

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Sneezing
  • Coughing
  • Runny nose
  • Watery, itchy, and red eyes
  • Sore throat
  • Headache
  • Skin rash
  • Digestive disruptions (abdominal pain and diarrhea)

While immunotherapy can be used to reduce the allergic reactions, the main course of treatment involves relieving the symptoms. This can be accomplished through the use of over-the-counter antihistamines, pain relievers, and prescription allergy medications designed to treat a number of symptoms. As children age, their allergies may decrease in severity making it necessary for a second round of testing or a reevaluation of their treatment plan.