When sneezing, congestion, or itchy skin lasts for months, an allergy clinic offers a focused place to find answers. These clinics specialize in allergies, asthma, and immune system conditions. Board-certified allergists lead the care, and trained staff perform testing and follow-up visits. Here are four main services at allergy clinics:
Identifying Key Triggers
Chronic symptoms may have more than one cause. Pollen might bother you in spring, but dust mites might affect you all year. An allergist uses testing to pinpoint the specific substances that cause your reactions. Tests provided at an allergy clinic may include the following:
- Skin prick tests: A nurse places tiny amounts of allergens on your skin and checks for raised bumps.
- Blood tests: A lab measures allergy antibodies in a blood sample.
- Patch tests: You wear allergen patches on your back.
Once your results come back, the allergist compares them with your symptom history. A positive test alone does not confirm an allergy. Some people test positive without symptoms, so the allergist looks at both pieces together.
Getting Immunotherapy
Allergy medications treat symptoms, but immunotherapy targets the immune response itself. Since your body receives slowly increasing doses of an allergen, it may become less reactive over time. Allergists offer a few main forms.
Allergy shots involve injections in the upper arm at the clinic. While you build up to a maintenance dose, you typically visit once or twice a week. The build-up phase typically lasts several months, and maintenance shots continue every few weeks. Staff may watch you after each shot.
Sublingual tablets dissolve under the tongue, and you take them at home daily. Some people use tablets for certain grass pollens, short ragweed, and dust mites. Treatment typically continues for years, though results differ from person to person.
Receiving Epinephrine Shots
If you have a history of severe reactions, an allergist may prescribe an epinephrine auto-injector. Epinephrine treats anaphylaxis, and it works by relaxing airways and raising blood pressure. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening reaction to foods, insect stings, medications, or latex. Symptoms include hives, throat swelling, wheezing, and dizziness.
The allergist or nurse demonstrates the device with a trainer pen. Since auto-injectors expire, you need to check the date and replace them on time. After using epinephrine, you still need emergency medical care right away. Most plans call for carrying two devices, and you store them at room temperature.
Getting Lifestyle Guidance
Avoidance plays a big role in managing allergies, and your allergist gives specific steps for your triggers. The advice depends on what your test results show. Most plans include written instructions. Recommendations may include the following:
- Using allergen-proof covers on pillows and mattresses
- Keeping windows closed during peak pollen seasons
- Running a HEPA air filter in the bedroom
- Reading food labels and asking about restaurant ingredients
- Following a written asthma or anaphylaxis action plan
Visit an Allergy Clinic
An allergist looks at your symptoms, history, and test results together. Some patients need one visit, and others return for ongoing treatment. Bring a list of your symptoms, medications, and suspected triggers to the first appointment. If you have insurance, check whether your plan requires a referral from your primary care doctor.
