An allergist (or immunologist) is a physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating allergies, asthma, and certain immunodeficiency disorders. Allergies result from the hypersensitivity of the body’s immune system to otherwise harmless substances, including pollen, dust, molds, and pet hair. Allergy specialists work with their patients to identify the trigger (or allergen) that causes a physiological response and to control it with medication or other forms of treatment. Allergists are extensively educated, completing four years of medical school, a three-year residency, and additional years of training in various specialties. Prior to practicing, they are licensed and board certified by a professional governing body.

What Does an Allergist Do?

Allergists diagnose and treat a wide range of immunological symptoms and sensitivities, including asthma, hay fever, psoriasis, eczema, food allergies, insect bites, sinus and ear infections, and a life-threatening condition known as anaphylaxis. Allergists accomplish this through doctor-patient interaction, conducting physical exams, ordering tests, and prescribing courses of treatment, typically medications or immunotherapy. The cause of immune sensitivities remains unknown; medical treatment focuses on the prevention and management of symptoms rather than the elimination of specific conditions.

What Types of Allergists Are There?

Allergy treatment includes the following specialties:

• Allergists: Treatment of allergies on a one-by-one basis.
• Immunologists: Focus on medical conditions involving the overall immune system.
• Pediatric allergists: Treatment of allergies in children.

Allergists often work with other medical specialists in caring for patients. These include pulmonologists (lung doctors), gastroenterologists (digestive-system doctors), and otolaryngologists (ear, nose, and throat doctors or ENTs).

When Should You See an Allergist?

You should see an allergist whenever you experience the symptoms associated with an allergic condition. They may include:

• Uncontrolled coughing
• Red, watery eyes
• Sneezing and runny nose
• Scratchy throat
• Labored breathing
• Snoring and insomnia
• Red, itchy skin
• Hives
• Swollen tongue or facial features

If your symptoms are life-threatening – for example, severe dizziness, declines in blood pressure, or extreme difficulty in breathing – call 911 or have someone take you to the nearest emergency medical facility.

Many people suffering from colds can control their symptoms with over-the-counter (OTC) medications. If OTC medications don’t work for you, you may have an allergy rather than a simple head cold.

What Can I Expect at My Visit to the Allergist?

A visit to an allergist will begin like any other medical visit. Your allergist will conduct a physical exam, ask about your symptoms, and record your family history. He or she may also perform one or more tests to determine which allergens are triggering your reactions. These might include blood tests, patch tests, skin tests, and pulmonary function tests. With this information, your allergist can create a treatment plan specific to you, possibly including allergy medications or immunotherapy. He or she may also recommend certain over-the-counter medications or provide guidelines on other means of avoiding contact with your allergens.

If you’re experiencing symptoms or have a family medical history that concerns you, the Baptist Health allergy & asthma team is ready with expert care.