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Doctors have revealed that immunotherapy presents a safe and effective solution for tackling allergies in children under the age of five. This revelation, made on Thursday, offers hope to parents grappling with the growing prevalence of allergies among the youngest members of society.
Dr. Sarita Sharma, a distinguished Senior Consultant in Pediatrics, Allergy, and Asthma at PSRI Hospital, highlighted the escalating burden of allergies in children, attributing it to lifestyle changes, environmental factors, and increasing pollution levels. Allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis, and sensitization to common allergens like house dust mites and pollen are among the most prevalent manifestations.
“In children, symptoms can manifest as nasal symptoms, wheezing, cough, skin reactions, and food allergies,” Dr. Sharma emphasized.
Contrary to common belief, which often sees antihistamines, inhalers, and steroids as the primary recourse for treating childhood allergies, immunotherapy emerges as a medically sound alternative, especially for children older than five years.
“Immunotherapy is the only disease-modifying agent available if instituted in the correct dose, duration, and disease,” asserted Dr. Dhiren Gupta, a Senior Pediatrician at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital.
Dr. Sharma elaborated on the benefits of immunotherapy, underscoring its ability to alleviate symptoms, enhance quality of life, reduce medication dependence, and provide lasting relief. Sublingual immunotherapy, involving the administration of allergen preparations under the tongue, has gained approval from the US FDA for allergens such as dust mites, grass, and ragweed.
Despite its promise, the doctors caution that the decision to pursue immunotherapy should be made in consultation with an allergist, considering both its suitability for the child and the associated risks and benefits.
“Immunotherapy should be instituted early before irreversible changes happen in the airway. It’s not 100 per cent curative. The average duration is 3 years. The response depends on the type of allergy and route of immunotherapy,” Dr. Gupta explained, advocating for further research tailored to the Indian population.
As allergies continue to pose a significant health challenge for children globally, the endorsement of immunotherapy as a viable treatment option marks a significant stride towards addressing this pressing public health concern.
