Effectively controlling asthma and
allergies requires planning, skill and patience. The allergist, with his or her
specialized training can develop a treatment plan for your individual condition.
The goal will be to enable you to lead a life that is as normal and symptom-free
as possible. A visit to the allergist might include...
Allergy Testing
The allergist will usually perform
tests to determine what allergens are involved.
Prevention Education
The most effective approach to treating
asthma or allergies is to avoid the factors that trigger the condition in the
first place. Even when it is not possible to completely avoid allergens, an
allergist can help you decrease exposure to allergens.
Medical Prescriptions
A number of new and effective
medications are available to treat both asthma and allergies.
Allergy Shots - Immunotherapy
In this treatment, patients are given
regular injections to the allergens that cause their allergy problems. Gradually
the injections get stronger until you reach your maintenance dose. In most
cases, the allergy problems get less and less over time.
Allergy Drops - Immunotherapy
Drops made up of the patient’s
allergens are taken at home daily to help reverse allergy symptoms. Although an
effective and common treatment overseas, allergy drops are considered “off
label” in the U.S. and are generally not covered by insurance.