Allergies can significantly disrupt your daily life with symptoms like hives, itching, congestion and even difficulty breathing. To regain control and stay healthy, you need an allergy management and treatment plan to minimize the impact of such symptoms. The first step in getting treatment is to find an experienced Atlanta allergist who can help.
What Questions Should You Ask an Allergist?
When you need to address your allergy issues, whether simple or complex, ask an allergist the following questions. Finding a skilled and knowledgeable allergist will ensure you get the quality of treatment you’re looking for.
What types of allergies do you specialize in treating?
Top allergists treat a range of allergy issues, including food allergies (eggs, milk, peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish and so on) and environmental allergies (hay fever, dust, mold, pet dander, etc.).
What are the different allergy tests you perform?
Allergists typically offer several testing services to identify immune system reactions to allergens. Skin prick testing is the most common way to diagnose an allergy, though blood testing is also an option. Patch testing is used to assess contact dermatitis, and oral food challenge tests are sometimes used to diagnose or rule out food allergies.
Do you provide testing services for asthma?
Allergists who specialize in treating asthma use spirometry tests to diagnose the condition. This test measures the airflow and volume of air that is inhaled and exhaled.
How accurate are allergy tests?
Allergy tests are very accurate when used in conjunction with a comprehensive analysis of medical history and symptoms. During a visit your allergist will identify the appropriate test or tests. For example, a skin prick test is sometimes better than a skin patch test, depending on your symptoms.
What treatment options do you offer for allergy management?
Leading allergists offer a range of advanced allergy treatments such as allergy shots, oral immunotherapy, even rush immunotherapy. In addition to these successful therapies, allergists can also advise patients on dietary and lifestyle adjustments.
Can immunotherapy treatment prevent severe allergic reactions?
Immunotherapy can significantly reduce the severity of allergic reactions by desensitizing the patient’s immune system to allergens over time. An allergist will develop a long-term treatment plan that involves the regular administration of gradually increasing amounts of the allergen.
Do I need to carry an epinephrine auto-injector in case of anaphylaxis?
As part of a comprehensive allergy treatment, allergists often recommend carrying an epinephrine auto-injector. This medication can be life-saving in case of a severe allergic reaction, providing immediate treatment to counteract symptoms until medical help is available.
Work With a Top Allergist Near Me in Atlanta
Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center is a trusted provider of allergy testing and treatment. For help with environmental and food allergies, asthma and sinusitis, visit us in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth or Johns Creek. Call (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment.