You wouldn’t see a cardiologist for knee pain. Why see just anyone for allergies? Allergies can mimic other health problems and medical conditions such as colds, viruses, and gastrointestinal ailments. Therefore, symptoms can be mistaken for other conditions. It’s essential to see a Las Vegas allergist if you have signs of allergies, as he or she can make an accurate diagnosis. For you, that means less time and money spent at the doctor’s office. It also gives you control over managing your allergies and making lifestyle adjustments as needed.
Different Kinds of Allergies
Approximately 50 million Americans have allergies. Food allergies and seasonal allergies are some of the most common kinds. However, people can also have skin allergies, allergies to pet dander or insect bites, dust allergies, and allergies to household substances like mold and mildew. While it’s possible to develop allergies at random suddenly, many allergies have a genetic component. If one or both of your parents have allergies, you’re more likely to develop them too. A Las Vegas allergist will ask about family history of allergies when you come in for an appointment to get a better understanding of your risk factors.
Allergy Symptoms
Allergies can affect all parts of your body. That means you can experience many different symptoms. Common symptoms of food allergies range from gastrointestinal problems like vomiting and diarrhea to severe reactions like difficulty breathing, hives, and anaphylactic shock. Seasonal allergies can cause itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, a sore throat, and nasal congestion. Skin allergies can give you redness, itching, bumps, and other signs of skin irritation. Since symptoms range from unpleasant to life-threatening, it’s crucial to find an allergist as soon as possible to find the source of your allergic reaction.
How Are Allergies Diagnosed?
There are several methods used to identify allergies. The most common is a skin test. For this test, your Las Vegas allergist puts a small sample of possible allergens on your skin through tiny pricks. If you are allergic to a substance, the skin will appear red and swollen. A blood test can also be performed if you have sensitive skin, a particularly severe history of reactions, or if you’re taking certain medications.
What Distinguishes a Specialist?
A specialist receives intensive training specifically in his or her area of interest. An allergist, for instance, must devote at least two or three years to studying immunology, allergies, and asthma. Before that, an allergist can also choose to complete a residency in pediatrics or internal medicine.
Only a specialist has the tools, training, and knowledge necessary to identify and treat allergies. If you’re suffering from asthma or allergies, you’re probably wondering, “where can I find an allergist near me?” We encourage you to contact Dr. Tottori, a knowledgeable and compassionate allergist, for allergy relief.
