Many people assume allergies are simply something they have to live with. However, persistent allergy or asthma symptoms can often be effectively diagnosed and treated. If your symptoms interfere with your daily activities, sleep, work, or school—or if over-the-counter medications aren't providing enough relief—it may be time to see a board-certified allergist.
Board-certified allergists are physicians with specialized training in diagnosing and treating allergies, asthma, and immune system disorders. They can identify the underlying cause of your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan to help you feel your best.
Signs You Should Schedule an Allergy Evaluation
Consider seeing an allergist if you have:
- Frequent sneezing, nasal congestion, or a runny nose
- Itchy, watery, or red eyes
- Persistent coughing or wheezing
- Recurring sinus infections or chronic sinus congestion
- Skin rashes, eczema, chronic itching, or hives
- Allergy symptoms that interfere with sleep or everyday activities
- Symptoms that continue despite over-the-counter allergy medications
- Reactions that occur after eating certain foods, taking medications, or being stung by insects
Should You See an Allergist for Asthma?
Yes. Allergies are one of the most common triggers of asthma. If you experience coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, or shortness of breath that worsens during pollen season or after exposure to pets, mold, or dust mites, an allergist can determine whether allergies are contributing to your asthma and recommend treatments to improve symptom control.
When Should You See an Allergist for Food Allergies?
If you've experienced hives, swelling, vomiting, difficulty breathing, or other symptoms after eating a specific food, you should be evaluated by an allergist.
An allergy evaluation may include skin testing, blood testing, or other diagnostic tools when appropriate. Accurate diagnosis is essential because many food intolerances and digestive conditions can mimic food allergies.
When Is an Allergic Reaction an Emergency?
Call 911 or seek emergency medical care immediately if you experience symptoms of anaphylaxis, including:
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
- Swelling of the tongue or throat
- Trouble swallowing
- Repeated vomiting
- Dizziness, fainting, or loss of consciousness
- A sudden drop in blood pressure
After emergency treatment, schedule a follow-up appointment with an allergist to identify the cause of the reaction and discuss strategies to reduce your risk of future reactions.
Other Conditions an Allergist Can Treat
Board-certified allergists diagnose and manage many conditions beyond seasonal allergies, including:
- Seasonal and year-round environmental allergies
- Asthma
- Food allergies
- Drug allergies
- Stinging insect allergies
- Pet allergies
- Eczema (atopic dermatitis)
- Chronic hives (urticaria)
- Angioedema (recurrent swelling)
- Certain immune system disorders and recurrent infections
How Can an Allergist Help?
After determining what's causing your symptoms, your allergist may recommend:
- Allergy testing
- Prescription allergy medications
- Environmental control strategies to reduce allergen exposure
- Asthma management
- Food allergy education and avoidance plans
- Allergy immunotherapy (allergy shots)
- Biologic medications for eligible patients with certain allergic conditions
Every treatment plan is personalized based on your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, and long-term health goals.
Why Choose a Board-Certified Allergist?
Board-certified allergists complete extensive specialty training in allergy, asthma, and immunology beyond medical school and residency. Their expertise allows them to accurately diagnose complex allergic conditions, identify underlying triggers, and provide evidence-based treatments that can improve quality of life and reduce the risk of future allergic reactions.
If allergy or asthma symptoms are affecting your health or limiting your daily activities, don't wait to seek answers. A board-certified allergist can help identify the cause of your symptoms and develop a treatment plan designed specifically for you.