When allergies are getting in the way of normal activities, it’s time to see an allergy specialist at University Health. We offer diagnostic testing and treatments for a range of allergens and irritants, including:
- Dust
- Foods, including dairy, eggs, peanuts, soy, shellfish and wheat
- Latex
- Mold
- Pets
- Pollen
Allergy Testing
Allergy testing can help your health care provider determine which substances cause your symptoms. There are three common tests your health care provider might use:
Skin test: Your doctor will put a small amount of an allergen on your skin, then prick the area. If the pricked area rises up like a mosquito bite, that means you are allergic to the allergen. This can test many allergens at once.
Blood test: Blood tests are done if skin tests can’t be performed. Blood tests measure the IgE antibodies to certain allergens in your blood.
Challenge test: Under close medical supervision, you will inhale or consume a small amount of the allergen. This is most often performed for food or medicine allergies when your provider expects you will have a minor reaction.
Treatments
Your allergy treatment plan will be determined by your overall health and how well you do with medication and procedures.
Self-management
The easiest and most recommended treatment method is avoiding the allergen whenever possible. Your doctor may also recommend a saline spray to rinse the irritants out of your nose.
Other ways you can avoid allergies are:
- Dust-proof your home
- Stay inside when pollen counts are high
- Wash bedding and clothes often to eliminate dust mites
- Wear a face mask when doing yard work
Allergy immunotherapy
Allergy shots inject a mix of the substances you are allergic to boost your immune system against them. Shots may be a better option than avoidance for:
- Hay fever (allergic rhinitis)
- Eye allergy (conjunctivitis)
- Allergic asthma
- Stinging insect allergy (bees)
Newer methods include tablets that dissolve under your tongue.
Prescription medication
Based on your allergy and the symptoms it causes, your doctor may prescribe:
- Antihistamines
- Decongestants
- Corticosteroids
- Mast cell stabilizers
- Epinephrine
Providers on Your Care Team
You may have a number of health care professionals on your care team. You can expect to get treatment from a physician, pulmonologist (lung specialist), lab technician and pharmacist.