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Adult & children's allergy services - Since 1982
Assessment and management by an experienced paediatrician
Asthma is one of the most common long-term conditions in children, affecting approximately 1 in 11 children in the UK. It causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, which can lead to coughing, wheezing, breathlessness, and chest tightness.
Many children with asthma can be managed very effectively with the right diagnosis, treatment plan, and inhaler technique. However, parents are often left with unanswered questions or uncertainty following a brief GP appointment. A comprehensive paediatric assessment can help clarify the diagnosis, optimise treatment, and identify underlying allergic triggers (if any).
At the London Allergy Clinic, Dr Emily Derrick provides thorough paediatric asthma assessments, particularly for children where allergies may be contributing to symptoms.
What is asthma?
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the airways (bronchi).
In children with asthma, the airways are:
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Inflamed (swollen)
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Sensitive to triggers
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Prone to narrowing (bronchoconstriction)
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Associated with increased mucus production
This can make breathing more difficult, particularly during viral infections, exercise, or exposure to allergens.
Asthma symptoms often vary over time and may come and go.
Common symptoms include:
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Wheezing (a whistling sound when breathing)
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Persistent or recurrent coughing, especially at night
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Breathlessness
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Chest tightness
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Coughing or wheezing during exercise
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Frequent chest infections or prolonged recovery from colds
Early, specialist input can help improve symptom control and reduce long‑term complications.
Asthma and allergies in children
Asthma can be linked with allergic conditions. Many children with asthma may also suffer with:
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Eczema
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Food allergies
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Hay fever (allergic rhinitis)
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Dust mite allergy
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Animal allergy
This is known as the “atopic march”, where allergic conditions develop progressively during childhood.
Identifying and managing allergic triggers can significantly improve asthma control in some children.
Where appropriate, allergy testing may be considered. You can read more about a common testing approach here:
Skin Prick Allergy Testing
👉 You may wish to read more on our Paediatric Allergy and Paediatric Eczema pages.
When should your child be assessed for asthma?
A specialist paediatric assessment may be helpful if your child has:
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Persistent cough lasting more than 4 weeks
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Recurrent wheezing episodes
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Night-time coughing
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Exercise-induced symptoms
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Frequent use of reliever inhalers
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Poor response to current asthma treatment
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Suspected allergic triggers
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Diagnostic uncertainty
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Dr Derrick places a strong emphasis on parent education and practical management plans, helping families feel confident managing asthma day‑to‑day.
What we offer at the London Allergy Clinic
​Dr Emily Derrick provides comprehensive paediatric asthma assessments, including:
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Detailed review of symptoms and history
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Assessment of possible allergic triggers
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Review and optimisation of inhaler treatment
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Inhaler technique assessment
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Guidance on preventer vs reliever use
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Prescriptions where appropriate
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Clear, personalised management plan
Appointments are 60 minutes, allowing time for a thorough and thoughtful assessment.
This service is particularly helpful for:
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Children with suspected asthma
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Children with poorly controlled asthma
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Parents seeking specialist paediatric guidance
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Children with asthma and suspected allergies
How it works:
Call the clinic on 0207 637 9711 to speak to a friendly member of the team for advice, or email on enquiries@londonallergyclinic.com to book an appointment.
We can also be contacted via WhatsApp
+(44) 7467 133 347
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