When Should I Call An Allergist?

Many people suffer their entire lives with allergies without ever visiting an allergy doctor. The reasons for not visiting an allergy doctor may range from fear to lack of awareness. Here are the things you should know when considering making an appointment with an allergist:

What Happens When I Visit An Allergist?

First, your allergist will want to test you to determine what you are allergic to. Once they have determined which allergens are causing your reactions, they will know how to treat your allergies or asthma.

Next, your allergist will talk to you about best practices to prevent the onset of your allergies. You will learn how to avoid the allergens that trigger your symptoms. And, since you probably won’t always be able to completely avoid these allergens, your doctor will help you with ways to decrease your exposure to them.

Finally, your allergist may prescribe medications that can treat your allergies. A skilled allergist will create a plan to treat you and your unique condition. He or she will strive to help you get back to normal as soon as possible, so that you feel healthy and free of symptoms.  Once your allergies/asthma are under control, you will probably notice a major difference in your quality of life.

What Kinds of Medications Are Used To Treat Allergies?

Many doctors will prescribe allergy shots to those who suffer from severe or chronic allergies. This entails visiting your doctor every week or every couple of weeks to receive the shot. These shots contain the allergens that you are allergic to. As you are exposed to the allergens in small and gradually increasing doses, your body develops a tolerance for the allergen, and eventually, you won’t react to it anymore. Your allergy symptoms should lessen or be eliminated.  

If you are allergic to ragweed, grass pollen, or dust mites, your doctor may use sublingual immunotherapy to treat you. This therapy comes in the form of a pill that you will take once a day. Taking the pill should gradually alleviate your symptoms.

Signs That Indicate You Should See An Allergist  

Make an appointment to see an allergist if:

• You experience hay fever, asthma, or other allergy symptoms frequently or chronically.
• Your use of over-the-counter medication is not relieving your symptoms.
• Your daily life is adversely affected by asthma or allergies.
• You experience the effects of severe asthma such as:
• You struggle to breathe.
• You frequently wheeze or cough, especially at night or after exercise.
• You experience shortness of breath or feel tightness in your chest.
• You keep suffering from asthma attacks, even though you take asthma medication.
• Your allergies cause other problems, such as chronic sinus infections, nasal congestion, or difficulty breathing.