What Is an Allergist?

Specialized Physicians Dedicated to Helping You Find Relief

An allergist is a medical professional specializing in diagnosing, treating, and managing allergies and immunologic disorders. Allergists have extensive knowledge of the immune system and specialize in consulting with patients on their individual needs. They can provide treatments such as allergen immunotherapy, medication, and lifestyle modifications to reduce symptoms. Additionally, they can help identify triggers for allergies and develop strategies to prevent reactions, as well as offer advice on how to cope with any emotional distress that may be associated with allergic conditions.

What Does an Allergist Do?

Allergists are highly skilled medical specialists with specialized knowledge and experience in managing allergy and immune-related conditions. Their core responsibilities include:

• Diagnosing: Allergists possess expertise in accurately diagnosing immune system disorders. Through comprehensive medical histories, physical examinations, and precise diagnostic tests, they can identify and determine the underlying cause of your symptoms.
• Treatment: Once a diagnosis is established, allergists create tailored treatment plans to effectively manage your condition. This may involve a combination of medication, lifestyle modifications, and immunotherapy. Allergists may provide allergy shots and or sublingual immunotherapy to desensitize you to specific allergens.
• Education and Prevention: In addition to treating allergies and immune-related conditions, allergists play a crucial role in educating patients about their conditions and helping them understand potential triggers, management strategies, and preventive measures. They guide patients on how to minimize exposure to allergens or prevent immune system flare-ups, ultimately leading to enhanced quality of life.

What is the Difference between Allergists and Immunologists?

In most cases, the term "allergist" refers to an allergist/immunologist, and the two terms are used interchangeably. Allergists primarily address allergies and asthma, while also managing immune disorders. An immunologist is also an allergist/immunologist, but typically specializes in immune disorder treatment or conducting medical research related to the immune system. Regardless of the label, allergists/immunologists are highly qualified medical professionals.

What Education and Training are required to be an Allergist?

Allergists are physicians who have received specialized training beyond medical school to diagnose and treat a range of conditions affecting your immune system. After completing medical school, allergists in the U.S.: 

• Undergo three years of training in either internal medicine or pediatrics.
• Pass the exam of either the American Board of Internal Medicine or the American Board of Pediatrics.
• Complete an additional two years of study, called a fellowship, in an allergy/immunology training program.

Most allergists at Allergy Partners are also certified by the American Board of Allergy and Immunology as experts in the management, treatment, and diagnosis of allergies, asthma, and other allergic diseases.

When Should You See an Allergist?

According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), more than 60 million Americans struggle with allergies every year. That’s about one in six people! While symptoms can range from mild to severe, no one wants to sniffle, sneeze, wheeze, or cough their way through the day. If you’re dealing with allergies, asthma, or another condition, it’s time to see an allergist when:

• Your symptoms are beginning to interfere with your day-to-day activities and decrease your quality of life.
• You frequently suffer from sinus or ear infections, headaches, sneezing, and coughing.
• You feel like you’re always sick, and it takes you a long time to get over colds or routine illnesses.
• You are not finding relief from over-the-counter allergy medications or are experiencing negative side effects.
• You wheeze, cough, or feel short of breath frequently, especially after exercise or at night.
• You have experienced serious allergic reactions such as hives, swelling, or anaphylaxis.
• You suspect you have or are developing a food allergy.

If one or more of the above describe your experience, today’s the day to take that first step toward finding a solution and feeling better.