Allergy Doctor in Abilene

An allergy specialist works with patients to diagnose and manage their allergies. They provide services to help with trigger avoidance and potential treatment options. Working with an allergy specialist can help patients manage the limitations and risks associated with different types of allergies.

Allergy services cover a range of allergy types. Most commonly, our services involve diagnosing and treating seasonal, food, and pet allergies. We also work to identify and manage a range of other allergies and allergy-related conditions such as:

• Asthma
• Eczema and other skin allergies
• Drug allergies
• Insect sting allergies
• And more

Allergies present with a range of symptoms depending on the type. Usually, patients come in for treatment after noticing certain symptoms. However, we also recommend patients visit an allergist if they have a family history of allergies, especially food allergies, which can be highly dangerous. Signs you should visit an allergy specialist include seeing symptoms like:

• Frequent sneezing, congestion, or runny nose
• Recurrent rashes or skin irritation
• Difficulties breathing (e.g., wheezing)
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Reactions to food (swelling, itching)
• Persistent respiratory or sinus symptoms
• Excessive swelling or itching after insect stings or bites

Definitive diagnosis of allergies is done through one of several tests. The most commonly used allergy tests include:

• Skin Prick Test: Involves a small amount of allergens applied to the skin to test for a reaction.
• Intradermal Test: Involves injecting a small amount of allergens under the skin.
• Blood Test: Evaluates for the presence of allergen-specific antibodies in your blood.

Allergy treatments range from patient education to long-term immunotherapy shots. A successful management plan will involve multiple factors, starting with trigger avoidance. Your allergy specialist will work with you to develop an appropriate plan based on your specific situation, symptoms, and health needs.

Yes! In fact, a child should be tested for allergies if they have any risk factors. For example, a family history of allergies indicates a need for treatment. Knowing your child’s allergies can allow you to help them avoid triggers that range from uncomfortable to dangerous. Allergy testing is available through our pediatric allergists for children and infants.

Allergies specifically involve an immune response. This means your body is reacting to an allergen as though it were a harmful organism or substance. Unfortunately, this is often an intense reaction, leading to swelling, difficulty breathing, and other life-threatening responses. An intolerance refers to a sensitivity reaction that has no immune involvement. A common intolerance is a dietary intolerance to lactose, which can be found in dairy products. A separate specialist helps treat these issues.