An allergy immunologist specializes in diagnosing and treating allergies, including asthma, food allergies, and anaphylaxis. They may recommend immunotherapy or medications to manage symptoms and boost the immune system. Becoming an allergy immunologist requires medical school and specialized training.
An allergy immunologist is a physician who specializes in the field of immunology with a concentration in the treatment and prevention of allergies. Immunology is the study of the immune system. Allergies result from an overactive immune response by the body. An allergy immunologist helps diagnose disorders, such as asthma and food allergies, and treats patients with immunotherapy or medications.
While many types of minor allergic reactions can be treated with over-the-counter medications, sometimes an allergy immunologist must be consulted to diagnose more serious inflammation. These doctors can run specialized tests to identify the type and cause of allergic reactions. Some allergies require periodic immunizations to keep them under control. An allergy immunologist would diagnose and help the patient deal with long-term allergies or asthma.
In addition to the usual types of hay fever and asthma, an allergy immunologist also treats chronic problems like a prolonged cough. Allergic rhinitis and allergy symptoms that don’t go away with typical medications are also common ailments treated by these types of doctors. An allergy immunologist also treats conjunctivitis, or eye allergies, and skin conditions such as eczema and hives.
A large number of allergy immunologists specialize in food allergies and anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is an immune system condition caused by a severe allergic reaction to a trigger, such as food, latex, or insect stings. These patients need to be carefully monitored and are often prescribed medication. The allergy immunologist meets with these patients periodically to assess the effects of the medications and adjust them as needed.
While medications are often prescribed, an allergy immunologist may also recommend that a patient undergo some form of immunotherapy. Most often, these therapies consist of a specialized diet and exercise program designed to boost the natural abilities of the immune system. The physician needs to be aware of the types of foods or natural supplements that can keep the immune system in check. The goal is to reduce the need for medication and lessen the effects of an allergic reaction.
Becoming an allergy immunologist requires a medical school degree and subsequent specialization. After completing four years of undergraduate and at least three years of medicine, an additional minimum of two years of training in allergy and immunology is required, depending on whether the physician wants to work with adults or children. Candidate allergy immunologists must pass the board exam before becoming certified to practice.
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