Allergy Induced Asthma Treatment in Charlotte, NC
Allergy Skin Testing:
Skin prick testing can quickly and accurately determine allergy to many things in your environment, such as trees, grasses, weeds, molds, foods, animal dander, dust mites, bees, and fire ants. Using a special plastic applicator of multiple allergens, the skin on the inside of your forearms or back is quickly and easily pricked with minimal discomfort. A timer is set for 15 minutes and the skin is re-examined for reactions. Itchy, red welts may indicate clinically important allergies, and they are scored on a scale marked zero to four. The doctor will review the skin tests with you and explain treatment recommendations based on your clinical history and test results.
Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots):
Immunotherapy is a very effective treatment against airborne allergens, including pollen, dust, mold, and animal dander. It should also be given to all individuals with severe reactions to stinging insects, including bees and fire ants. Based on skin test results, an individualized plan for immunotherapy will be created for you. With allergy shots, a small measured amount of allergen is injected under the skin of the arm which causes the body to produce antibodies that block the allergic reaction over time. The injection is started at a very tiny dose to maximize safety. It is then increased weekly for the first few months. After a target dose is reached, it is normally given once per month. Allergy symptoms should be noticeably improved in the first few months. Shots are normally continued three to five years to produce maximum benefit. Our trained staff can help you to quickly and easily receive your shots to fit your busy schedule.
For more information, click here: Allergy Shots FAQ
Spirometry (Lung Function Test):
Spirometry is an important test to accurately determine how much air your lungs can hold and how quickly you can breathe air in and out of your lungs. The test can be quickly performed in our office. Based on your age, height, and gender, this test can detect possible lung changes caused by many different lung diseases such as asthma. The test is normally performed for patients with symptoms including shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness, coughing, or poor exercise tolerance. Breathing tests can be repeated to follow improvement or worsening of symptoms.
Food Allergy Diagnosis & Education:
If you get red itchy welts, nausea, vomiting, cramps, diarrhea, shortness of breath or other allergy symptoms shortly after eating certain foods, you may have food allergies. The most common food allergies in children are milk, egg, soy, peanuts, wheat and fish. In adults, the most common food allergies are seafood, peanuts, and tree nuts. Skin testing can help to identify possible specific food triggers. Suspected foods are discontinued from the diet. Our trained staff will provide you with educational materials to help identify and avoid problem foods. Over time, some food allergies go away on their own. Our office will help you to reintroduce them safely when possible.
