A Parent's Guide to Children's Allergies

Gina Conte is a Toronto account executive.

This book is a must for anyone with an allergic child, and can be a
useful resource for anyone concerned about the possibility of his or her
child developing allergic reactions to various substances.

Webber, a pharmacist, provides basic information about the immune
system and allergies before discussing the specific problems of hay
fever, asthma, and skin reactions as well as food, drug, and insect
allergies. Each chapter outlines how to identify allergy symptoms,
common allergens, and various treatments to be administered. The
comprehensive drug-therapy section includes drug types, Canadian names,
function, purpose, and prescribed dosages. Costs are included, although
these may become quickly outdated. There is also a checklist for
“adverse drug reactions” that describes what to look for at
different body sites. A chapter entitled “Managing Allergies”
summarizes changes families might make in order to control their
child’s allergies. Some suggestions may be extreme, such as changing
residence, but depending on the severity of the allergy, they may be the
only available alternative.

The book ends with information on the use of medication devices and
allergy kits, and provides addresses for allergy resource groups. An
extensive bibliography substantiates the information and opens the door
to further reading. As the author states, this book should not be used
as a sole source of information, but rather should complement a
physician’s advice.