However, although paediatricians have allergy as part of the general training, they may in individual cases decide to consult with, or refer a child to an allergy specialist. The progression of allergies in children differs from those in adults, e.g. food allergies and insect venom anaphylaxis.
Drug treatments are different for children both in dosage and side-effects.
The inherent dangers of unnecessary dietary restriction for treatment of some types of allergic diseases are far greater in children because of disturbances in nutrition and growth, and expert paediatric dietetic advice is usually required. Techniques for cardiopulmonary resuscitation after anaphylaxis are not the same as those in adults. There appears to be widespread public misunderstanding about the contriubiton of allergies to diverse children s disease such as hyperactivity, other forms of behavioural disorder, recurrent abdominal pain and chronic headaches. It is essential that such children are seen by paediatricians within the framework of a comprehensive children s department. Facilities and staff required 1.