When it comes to managing your allergies, there is no better choice than seeing an allergy specialist. Our board-certified allergists are immunologists trained to diagnose, treat, and manage allergies, asthma, and similar conditions. Learn more about allergists and how we can help manage your allergy symptoms.
What is an allergist/immunologist?
An allergist/immunologist (commonly referred to as an allergist) is a physician specially trained to diagnose, treat, and manage allergies, asthma, and immunologic disorders, including primary immunodeficiency disorders. These conditions range from the very common to the very rare, spanning all ages and encompassing various organ systems.
What type of education and training do they have?
An allergist goes through the same medical training as any other physician, a bachelor’s degree, and completion of medical school, but also requires an additional 3-4 years of training in pediatrics or internal medicine. Once completed, the American Board of Allergy and Immunology requires all candidates to complete two years of specialized training in allergy and immunology. Our McGovern Allergy & Asthma Clinic physicians are board-certified in pediatric and adult allergy and immunology.
How do they test & treat their patients?
The allergist will work with patients to identify and treat immune conditions. They will examine a patient’s medical history and perform a variety of tests to determine a proper diagnosis.
- Skin tests for environmental, food, and insect allergens.
- Blood tests
- Patch tests for contact dermatitis.
- Testing for medications.
- Pulmonary function tests for asthma or other respiratory problems.
- Complete blood count and nasal smear.
After determining the proper course of testing, your allergist will be able to identify a diagnosis. Common conditions treated are:
- Anaphylaxis
- Allergic Rhinitis & Sinusitis
- Eye Allergies
- Skin Allergies
- Eczema
- Allergic Contact Dermatitis
- Urticaria & Angioedema
- Stinging Insects Allergy
- Food Allergies
- Drug Allergies
- Asthma
Treatment plans will vary depending on the condition and patient. There are two types of allergy treatments, medication and immunotherapy.
- Medication
If medication is recommended, your allergist will work with you to determine the right prescription for you. Decongestants and antihistamines are the most common allergy medications. Other medications work by preventing the release of the chemicals that cause allergic reactions.
- Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy works by giving the patient a gradually increasing dose of the allergen they are allergic to. Over time, the immune system is better able to fight off the allergens causing the reaction by creating blocking antibodies.
Contact Us
Severe allergy symptoms can affect your ability to take on each day and potentially interfere with daily activities with your friends and loved ones. If you suffer from allergies or an immune condition, our allergists can provide relief for your symptoms and help you live healthier and happier! Contact an allergist at McGovern Allergy & Asthma Clinic or request an appointment online. https://mcgovernallergy.com/request-an-appointment-online/