Seeking Recommendations for Good Pediatric Pulmonologist, Immunologist, Allerg.

M. -- I wish I had references for you but I did want to say, if you get some, you may find your insurance requires your pediatician to refer you and you can't necessarily just book an appointment yourself without a referral (if you want insurance to cover it). Check with your insurance co. for a list of such specialists in the area who are part of your coverage, and take that list to your pediatrician ASAP. You don't want to go on your own to an allergist just to have them send you to a pulmonary specialist who then sends you to an ENT who sends you to someone else.

That said -- your pediatricians sound slack. Have they considered pneumonia? I've known kids and adults both this spring with coughing and wheezing who said "It's just allergies" when they actually had pneumonia that went undiagnosed. You put your concerns very well in your posting; if your child's having this much difficulty and labored breathing I'd call them, demand an appointment today, and go in and let them know exactly what you said here, ending with insisting they actually do something to help and refer you if necessary. They might be reluctant to refer to specialists or order tests because of insurance constraints. You may have to get very assertive with them. And if amoxycillin's not working, ask for other drug options--it can be the first drug but sometimes is just not strong enough. Good luck and don't let the doctor's dismiss your concerns.

my kids had the same perma-cough and turned out it was undiagnosed asthma! not serious but as soon as she used the inhaler, the 9 week cough stopped!

Hi M.,

I am new to the area so I cannot recommend drs. But I would definetly visit a Ent (Ear, nose and throat dr.) I realize you said he has not had ear infections, but large adnoids can cause constant congestion. When my daughters were removed at 2 her congestion finally went away (she had been congested since about 3 weeks of age). The surgery takes less than 20 min and they come out to you conscious and ready to go home, it is uncanny how 'easy' it was.

Also consider that silent reflux (heartburn without spitting up can cause a miserable child who will have a chronic cough). A pediatric gastroenterolist would be the person to see for that. There is a huge variation on how severe the symptoms can be, so don't freak out if you research it.

Hang in there. Allergies are genetic. Keep your house super clean (using non-chemical cleaners) and remember he is only 8 1/2 months old things will change!

Rochlele

My 6 month old has the exact same problem- and two months ago had the exact same thing, he is also exclusively breast feed- the doctor put him on a nebulizer and antibiotics- it is helping and as long as we continue the nebulizer tx after the antibiotic he is good- they are a pain, but he is so much happier. She said that it shouldn't last forever it is a form of bronctis and there is lots of phlem and swelling constricting his airway. When we take him off she said to watch and listen and if it returns to start the nebulizer tx a soon as we hear it.

I have 3 children and this is the 1st time it has happened with a child. It is driving me crazy- so if you find anything more out- please let me know ...

My little one also had two bouts of laryngitis at three months old along with all rest.

Good Luck

I am so sorry that your son is dealing with this chronic cough! Honestly, I would consider switching pediatricians (or getting a second opinion) just based on the fact that they keep putting him on amoxicillin without looking a bit further into what could be a problem. I would agree that maybe a pulminologist or allergist could help, and think you are an AWESOME mommy for pushing the issue so hard.

There is no evidence to suggest that BFing will reduce your child's chances of allergies or pulminary problems -- those studies that were proferred in the late 80's suggesting so were debunked in the early 2000's -- you'll just never hear a LC admit to it. As PP said, allergies are genetic, so BFing will merely delay the onset of allergies, and will not prevent them at all. Therefore, don't beat yourself up for the position your child is in now -- YOU have done everything in your power, with the information you have been told -- to assure the health of your child. I congratulate you on staying on top of it, and being an advocate for your child.

I don't have a pulminologist to suggest, but I DO really like my pediatricians, which are in Falls Church. Sleepy Hollow Pediatrics -- it's a large-ish practice, and you can almost always get in to see a doctor. Their hours are great, and I can't say enough about their doctors. I hope you find the help you need, and get your answers.