Allergist Near Homewood, AL

Allergists are familiar with the ways that other conditions such as COPD, autoimmune diseases, migraines, and more can be impacted by harsh allergy symptoms. If left untreated, issues such as chronic sinusitis may develop. Frequently known as rhinosinusitis, sinusitis is a common problem in which congestion occurs because the sinuses have become inflamed. This frequently results in a runny nose and a sinus-induced headache.

Skin conditions such as eczema are also made worse by the coexistence of allergens. Atopic dermatitis, which is a form of eczema, develops in the early stages of childhood, although it can crop up during any age. Generally, the irritant can cause a reaction on the skin anywhere from minutes to hours after exposure. Reddening of the skin occurs along with intolerable itching that can last for as long as 48 hours before beginning to subside.

In the worst-case scenarios, anaphylaxis can occur in patients with severe allergies. Although rare, anaphylaxis is a serious and severe immunological response to an allergen. A commonly known trigger for those who have a severe allergy to it is peanuts which, if not treated immediately, can lead to shock, coma, respiratory failure, asphyxiation, and death.

An allergist has been educated in performing a variety of tests in order to confirm or deny the existence of various allergies and narrow down the types of irritants involved. Spirometry is a standard test performed in clinics that deduce how lungs perform while inhaling. Bronchoprovocation challenge tests are used to determine what can cause allergic reactions by inhaling aerosolized chemicals in a controlled environment. Food challenges involve eating tiny amounts of food to see if they trigger a response and if so, help decide where to eliminate them from a sufferer’s diet.

Our team of well-versed Homewood ENTs gives full-panel allergen sensitivity testing for both food and environmental irritants. Rush immunotherapy and conventional immunotherapy are also available options for those experiencing severe allergic symptoms and chronic allergy woes. Known commonly as “allergy shots,” the procedural injection is given in the clinic itself. However, our Birmingham ENTs understand that everyone’s situation is unique, and special arrangements can be considered for recipients who are away for school or are traveling on business.

Are you prepared to take the first steps in controlling your allergies? Dr. Scott Robertson is only a short drive from the Homewood area and has helped countless allergy sufferers and more regain control over their bodies and lives. If you’re in need of allergy testing in Birmingham or the greater area, contact our clinic for an appointment today!