Top 5 Reasons To Make An Appointment With An Allergist
An allergist is a type of physician who has advanced training in treating patients with allergies and asthma. In many cases, if you or your child suffer from allergies or asthma, your family's primary care physician will most likely refer you to an allergist. Some of the top reasons to see an allergist include:
Allergy Testing
Some people can experience adverse allergic reactions, but may not be able to pinpoint exactly what they are allergic to. In this type of situation, an allergist will administer an allergy test. An allergy test is a painless procedure where a person is exposed to small amounts of the most common allergens. In many cases, an allergy test is very effective in helping an allergist, and the patient determines what a person is allergic to so the allergen can be avoided.
Experiencing Allergy Symptoms or Hay Fever for Several Months
Many people are allergic to pollen, and since pollen is present in the outside air, it can be hard to avoid. If you have been experiencing allergy symptoms or hay fever due to an allergy to pollen and other compounds found in the air for several months in a row, an allergist can help you. After listening to the symptoms you are regularly experiencing, an allergist will recommend a course of treatment and medications that can get your allergies under control.
Controlling Asthma
Asthma attacks are very unpredictable, and a severe asthma attack can be fatal. Anyone who shows signs of having asthma needs to be under the care of an allergist. Depending on the severity of your asthma, you may need to take medication daily to prevent asthma attacks from happening. You may also be prescribed an inhaler to use in the event that your regular medication does not work, and you have trouble breathing.
Problems with Over-the-Counter Allergy Medicines
Many people use over-the-counter allergy medicines with good results. But, there are a lot of people who find that over-the-counter medications don't help with their allergies or have bad side effects, such as extreme drowsiness or dizziness. When over-the-counter allergy medications don't work for you, make an appointment with an allergist.
Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a rare and extremely severe allergic reaction that can be very dangerous. It can cause very serious problems, such as swelling of the throat, difficulty breathing, a sudden drop in blood pressure, or loss of consciousness. If you have received emergency medical treatment for anaphylaxis, immediately make an appointment with an allergist. You will need a prescription for epinephrine, a medication that can stop anaphylaxis in the event that you're exposed to an allergen that you are extremely allergic to.
Contact a company like Oak Brook Allergists for more information and assistance.