Allergy Specialist or Skin Specialist

Hi
I am unhappy with my current GP at the moment for various reasons (mostly because she seems very anti-breast).

She (and a CHN) has diagnosed my daughter with eczema and has given me a letter for an allergy specialist (but didnt give me any contact details).

I am currently shopping for a new GP but just wondering whether I am better off trying to get a referal to an allergy specialist or a skin specialist? Who is going to help manage eczema better? I know that my daughter has a reaction to cows milk and we have excluded that from my diet to some success but she does still have the occasional flare up which appear to be caused by heat but we are not 100% sure.

Hi there
My GP diagnosed my DD with eczema and referred me to a paediatrican dermatalogist at Westmead here in Sydney. He confirmed it to be eczema and gave us info about controlling and preventing it etc. He also advised us to get skin prick tests done to see if she's allergic to anything, which we got done today and found out she's allergic to a few things. We got the skin prick tests done in Westmead and had to see the dermatalogist again, who referred us to see an allergy specialist.

Go back to your GP and ask for a referral to see a paediatrican dermatalogist as they are more experienced with children etc. Be prepared to wait for at least 3 months or so and also another 3 months for the skin prick tests. And also another 3-4 months for an allergy specialist. It costs about $130 to see the dermatologist, we only have medicare, and $80 for the next consultation which you get $30 back from medicare, and the skin prick tests are free.

Good luck.

Dear Shelldan&piper

Even though your GP and the CHN may be correct it would be best to see a Dermatologist initially to make sure of a correct diagnosis - a good dermatologist can also help you manage your daughter’s eczema. An allergy specialist could help in endeavouring to pinpoint any allergy or sensitivity which would be another step in controlling the eczema. When restricting diet it is wise to consult a dietitian to ensure that you (and your baby) are receiving the necessary nourishment for your own health and the development & health of your baby.

Cheryl & Lynn, Eczema Association.

<a href="http://www.eczema.org.au/">Eczema Association of Australasia Inc</a>

Note: This information should not replace the advice of your doctor.