A Guide for Your Visit With Your Allergist

When you have allergies, it is important to see an allergist for proper diagnosis and treatment. An allergist is a medical doctor who has special training in diagnosing and treating allergies, asthma, and immunologic disorders. Your allergist Surprise, AZ, will ask you questions about your symptoms and medical history. They will also perform physical exams and allergy tests to determine what you are allergic to.

After the allergist has diagnosed your allergies, they will work with you to develop a treatment plan. The treatment plan may include allergen avoidance, medications, and immunotherapy (allergy shots).

What to Expect During Your Visit

When you visit an allergist, they will ask you questions about your medical history and symptoms. They will also perform a physical exam. The allergist may also order allergy tests.

Allergy tests help the allergist determine what you are allergic to. There are two types of allergy tests: skin tests and blood tests.

Skin tests are usually done first. The allergist will place a small amount of an allergen on your skin with a skin test. They will then make a tiny scratch on your skin with a needle. If you are allergic to the allergen, you will develop a raised, itchy bump (hive) at the test site.
Blood tests may be done if skin tests cannot be done or if the allergist suspects you have a severe allergy. With a blood test, a sample of your blood is taken and sent to a laboratory. The laboratory will measure the amount of allergen-specific antibodies in your blood.

Allergen avoidance is the best way to prevent allergic reactions. If you are allergic to dust, you will need to take steps to avoid exposure to dust. It may include using special air filters and vacuums and keeping your home clean.

Medications can be used to relieve allergy symptoms. Many types of medications are available, including antihistamines, decongestants, corticosteroids, and epinephrine.
Immunotherapy (allergy shots) may be an option if you have severe allergies or if other treatments have not worked. With immunotherapy, you are exposed to small amounts of the allergen to build immunity. Allergy shots are usually given regularly over some time. Your allergist will work with you to develop the right treatment plan for you.

What to Bring to Your Visit

When you visit the allergist, there are some things you should bring with you. It includes:

A list of all the medicines you are taking, including over-the-counter medicines, herbal supplements, and vitamins
A list of your allergies
A list of your symptoms
Your health insurance card

It would help if you also arrived 15 minutes early for your appointment to have time to fill out the paperwork.

Preparing for Your Visit

Below are a few things to help prepare for your visit. It includes:

Finding out if your insurance plan covers the cost of the visit
Making a list of questions to ask the allergist
Scheduling the visit at a time when you can be there for the entire appointment

If you think you may have allergies, make an appointment with an allergist at Oasis Ear, Nose, and Throat. An allergist can help you identify your allergies and develop a treatment plan.