If you’re constantly struggling with your allergy symptoms, it may be a good idea to seek out professional medical help. This is an excellent step for identifying your allergic triggers and starting a long-term allergy wellness plan. However, you may be wondering where to start.
Why Should I See a Doctor for My Allergies?
Many people believe that medicating at home with over-the-counter allergy medications is enough to treat their allergies. For some, this is enough. However, even with OTCs, some people’s allergies continue to affect their quality of life with annoying or even severe symptoms. If this sounds like you, don’t suffer in silence.
You may also consider seeking professional medical care if you suspect you have a food, drug or insect allergy, as these allergies can often trigger dangerous, even life-threatening reactions. You’ll need a doctor’s help to get the emergency supplies you need, such as an EpiPen.
Finally, you might want to consult a doctor about your allergies if you have other health issues and are unsure how allergies or treating allergies will affect those issues (and vice versa). A doctor can help you choose safe options that get you the relief you need.
What Is a Primary Care Provider?
Your primary care provider (PCP) is often your first stop when it comes to diagnosing and managing health conditions, including allergies. They have completed a rigorous course of education and training to become a PCP and have a wealth of knowledge about a variety of conditions.
What Is an Allergist?
An allergist is also a certified medical professional who specializes in allergy and immunology (the study of the immune system). They should be Board-certified by the American Board of Allergy and Immunology.
Which Doctor Should I See?
PCPs are valuable as a first step. If you’ve never sought help for your allergies before, begin with your PCP. They’ll be able to discuss OTC medication options and offer advice on mild symptoms. They can’t perform skin-prick allergy tests, only blood tests; if you’re interested in a skin-prick test, you’ll need to go to an allergist.
For more severe symptoms, for more complex allergies or for a skin-prick test, you’ll want to see an allergist. Perhaps you even saw your PCP first, but after your initial discussion with them, they referred you to an allergist. As you may surmise, given that an allergist specializes in this field, an allergist can provide a number of allergy-specific treatments and give highly expert recommendations. This could include prescribing you stronger allergy medications, starting an immunotherapy regimen or dealing with more significant allergy symptoms, like asthma.
If this sounds like you and you’re ready to get treatment for your allergies, contact our team of allergists at ENT & Allergy Specialists – Ear Nose and Throat Physicians and Surgeons today. We’re happy to guide you on your allergy management journey and help you find the relief from your symptoms that you need.