It is not at all uncommon for people to suffer through their allergy symptoms for quite some time before seeing an allergy doctor. Allergies, provided they are not life-threatening, may take a backseat in an allergy sufferer’s list of priorities. However, untreated allergies can and do lead to complications. You could develop an infection or be in a chronic state of inflammation, which is not good for your health. Paying a visit to an allergist is one of the best decisions you can make for your health and well-being.
Who Are Allergists?
Allergists are medical doctors who have specialized in the diagnosis and treatment of allergies, asthma, and immunologic disorders. Allergists are experts in the management of conditions such as hay fever or allergic rhinitis and can provide a wide range of services, including skin testing, allergen immunotherapy or allergy shots, education on avoidance measures, and counseling on how to live with your condition.
To get the best possible care, choose a board-certified allergy doctor for your care. Let’s talk about what you can expect from a visit to an allergist’s clinic.
Recording of Your Medical History
Allergists keep a record of your medical history in order to better understand your allergies and how to treat them. This record includes information about your symptoms, when they occur, what triggers them, and any medications or treatments you have used in the past. Allergists may also use this information to identify new allergies or determine if you are at risk for certain types of reactions. Therefore, questions about everything related to your allergies should be expected.
It is highly encouraged that patients ask their allergist questions that are relevant to their medical condition and their treatment. Examples of questions you can ask your doctor are:
- Exactly what type of allergy do I have?
- How can I avoid my allergy triggers?
- Is it necessary to do an allergy test? If so, what allergy test do you recommend, and why? Further, how is the allergy test performed?
- What should I do at the first sign of an allergic reaction?
- Is there a cure for my allergy?
- What happens if I do not treat my allergies?
- What complications are associated with my allergies?
Allergy Testing and Treatment
Your allergist will recommend treatment for your allergies, such as prescription medications, allergy shots, immunotherapy, and lifestyle and environmental changes. The doctor will also create an allergy trigger avoidance plan to help reduce the frequency of your attacks as much as possible.
Allergist in Georgetown, TX
Dr. Scott William Franklin is our ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor at Georgetown ENT. Dr. Franklin is board-certified and conducts allergy testing and treatment in our clinic. If your allergies bother your sleep, Dr. Franklin is uniquely qualified to treat you because he is also trained in sleep medicine.
Your allergy symptoms can be managed with the right allergy treatment provided by an allergy expert like Dr. Franklin. To schedule an appointment, call our ENT clinic today at (512) 869-0604 or use our convenient appointment request form.
