Initial Assessment and Diagnosis
- Detailed Medical History: Our specialists take a comprehensive medical history to understand the nature and onset of allergy symptoms, potential triggers, family history of allergies, and any previous treatments or reactions.
- Allergy Testing: We use various diagnostic tests to identify specific allergens and determine the severity of the allergic reaction. These tests include:
- Skin Prick Testing: A small amount of suspected allergen is applied to the skin to see if a reaction occurs.
- Blood Tests: Such as specific IgE tests, which measure the immune system’s response to particular allergens.
- Patch Testing: Used to identify contact allergies by applying patches with small amounts of allergens to the skin.
- Challenge Tests: In controlled environments, these tests involve exposing the patient to suspected allergens to observe reactions, often used for food or medication allergies.
Individualized Treatment Plans
- Avoidance Strategies: Once specific allergens are identified, we provide practical guidance on how to avoid exposure. This may include:
- Environmental Control: Recommendations for reducing exposure to allergens like dust mites, pollen, pet dander, and mold.
- Dietary Modifications: Guidance on avoiding specific foods that trigger allergic reactions, particularly in food allergies.
- Medication Management: Patients may need to avoid certain medications if they have known drug allergies.
Medical Management
- Pharmacotherapy: Medications can help manage allergy symptoms and reduce inflammation. Common medications include:
- Antihistamines: To relieve sneezing, itching, and runny nose.
- Decongestants: To reduce nasal congestion.
- Corticosteroids: Nasal sprays, inhalers, or oral medications to reduce inflammation.
- Leukotriene Receptor Antagonists: To manage symptoms of allergic rhinitis and asthma.
- Epinephrine (Adrenaline): Emergency treatment for severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis).
Immunotherapy
- Allergen Immunotherapy: Also known as allergy shots, this treatment involves regular injections of gradually increasing amounts of an allergen to build tolerance. It is particularly effective for allergic rhinitis, allergic asthma, and insect sting allergies.
- Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT): An alternative to injections, where small doses of allergens are placed under the tongue to improve tolerance.
Management of Severe Allergies
- Anaphylaxis Management: We provide education and training on recognizing and managing anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. Patients are taught how to use an epinephrine auto-injector and develop an emergency action plan.
- Chronic Urticaria and Angioedema: For patients with chronic hives or swelling, we offer advanced treatments to manage these conditions.
Patient Education and Support
- Educational Resources: We provide comprehensive information about managing allergies, recognizing symptoms, and understanding treatment options.
- Lifestyle Counseling: Our team helps patients adopt lifestyle changes that can reduce the impact of allergies, such as dietary modifications and environmental adjustments.
