If your body reacts adversely to a foreign substance, you may have the symptoms and signs of allergy. There are different kinds of allergens, including environmental toxins. People often assume that symptoms like hives or swelling of the throat are minute problems and don’t need treatment. If you don’t seek help from a silver spring md allergist, the chances are high that you may eventually find it hard to continue with your normal life, especially when exposed to an allergen. Even though over-the-counter medications may offer some relief, you still need a personalized treatment plan. Here’s what you need to know.
Keep a diary
Some allergies are seasonal, while others are not. While only an allergist can do tests to determine whether you are allergic to a particular substance, you should maintain a diary where you write down symptoms and signs in detail. The information will come in handy when you see an immunologist.
Seeing an allergist
Your general practitioner may help treat and diagnose allergies, but if you have moderate to severe symptoms, it is always better to find a clinic that specializes in immunology. Call the clinic in advance and ask what the doctor would want for the initial consultation, such as your medical history.
The first visit
The allergist will review your medical history and family history and take a look at the current symptoms. They will also have questions about your lifestyle, diet, and routine, as there is always a chance that you have been exposed to an allergen or toxin recently. Allergists often rely on skin prick tests and blood tests to make a diagnosis. Ask the doctor whether you can take steps to prevent certain symptoms and what you can do to keep up with the treatment for the best results.
Other aspects to know
A considerable number of allergies are treatable with medications. Besides nasal sprays, your doctor may also recommend over-the-counter antihistamines. If you have a food allergy, your doctor may consider oral immunotherapy, which may allow you to reintroduce the food allergen back to your diet in a controlled manner. Make sure to follow their advice, and don’t try any allergy tests at home without talking to your doctor. People, regardless of age and gender, can develop an allergy, and the sooner you seek treatment, the better you can expect to manage the condition.
Talk to a doctor now to find out more about common allergies and available tests and treatments.
