An allergist is a medical practitioner who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of various types of allergies. They are also trained to treat asthma and conditions that affect the body’s immune system. Also known as immunologists, allergists must complete several years of education and pass numerous exams prior to becoming board-certified. Allergists and immunologists specialize in the diagnosis of allergies and immunologic diseases. They treat patients experiencing skin, breathing, food, and other types of allergies including allergic eye diseases, hives, eczema, hives, chronic sinus infections, medication allergies, and frequent colds and respiratory ailments. Often patients are referred to allergists by their primary care physician, but sometimes they are sent by other specialists such as a dermatologist or ear, nose, and throat specialist.
What do Allergists treat?
Allergy testing is one of the most common procedures performed by an allergist. Skin testing is one of the most effective ways for allergists to determine whether or not patients are allergic to specific substances. During the test, the skin is pricked and exposed to various allergens such as pet dander, tree pollen, certain medications, and mold. If the patient reacts to the allergen, they are often allergic. Intradermal testing may also be performed. In this procedure, diluted amounts of specific allergens are injected into the patient’s skin so the doctor can observe the body’s response. Allergists may also perform patch testing to determine the cause of contact dermatitis. Though this is not caused by an allergen, contact dermatitis is commonly tested by allergists because it involves abnormal reactions of the immune system.
Allergists treat common allergies as well as rare allergic reactions and conditions affecting the immune system. Their highly specialized training allows them to pinpoint specific allergens and administer proper courses of treatment. Treatment often involves topical creams or prescription medications that work to suppress the immune system’s response to certain allergens.
Training to be an Allergist
Like nearly all medical specialists, students wishing to specialize in the diagnose and treatment of allergies must first complete four years of undergraduate studies followed by four years of medical school. Upon graduation, they are required to complete a residency program in either internal medicine or pediatrics, both of which require an additional three years of training and study. Once they pass the exam to become board-certified physicians, they must complete a two year fellowship in allergy and immunology. An additional examination is required in order to receive board-certification in this specialized field.