Can a Food Allergy Doctor Near Me Treat My Allergies?
Food allergies affect countless individuals in Atlanta and across the country, but most people still remain undiagnosed. In reality, adults and children of all ages could see dramatic improvements to their daily life with an effective food allergy treatment. If you are unsure whether you need a food allergy doctor, here are the ways to determine whether it’s the right option.
When Should You See a Food Allergist?
Do you experience sickness, nasal congestion and stomach pains after eating certain foods? These signs could indicate a food allergy, but they may also indicate another issue like food intolerance. Similarly, if you are consistently experiencing coughs, nasal congestion and skin rashes, you may have an allergy that will be difficult to trace without medical assistance.
Asthma symptoms such as wheezing and shortness of breath are also common symptoms of a food allergy. Whether your existing asthma has been exacerbated after eating certain foods or you’ve experienced these symptoms for the first time, it’s important to find an allergy doctor. Sadly, untreated food allergy symptoms can lead to anaphylaxis that could be life-threatening without the proper treatment.
Here are the symptoms to look out for. If you experience any of these symptoms after eating food, contact a food allergy doctor.
- Skin hives or rashes
- Swelling around the face
- Problems swallowing
Breathing issues - Stomach pains
- Tingling in the mouth
- Sneezing and coughing
- Nasal congestion
Itchy eyes - Lightheadedness
- Anaphylaxis
How Will a Food Allergy Doctor Diagnose My Food Allergy?
If you think you have a food allergy, speak to your allergist about testing. A search for a food allergy doctor near me will highlight allergists that perform skin prick tests, blood tests and oral food challenge tests. These tests will pinpoint the allergens triggering allergic reactions, allowing for effective treatment.
What Are the Main Treatments for Food Allergies?
The first approach to treating a food allergy is to remove the food from your diet. Avoidance is a short-term approach to prevent severe allergic reactions. However, a consultation with your allergist will determine if you have removed the precise allergen. Stopping entire food groups is not an effective long-term approach, as it often limits the vitamins and nutrients you need to consume.
Next, your allergy doctor can recommend an appropriate solution for your food allergy. Unfortunately, there is currently no “cure” for a food allergy. However, medications like antihistamines and desensitization methods like oral immunotherapy treatment can prevent severe allergic reactions – and even enable you to safely consume quantities of the allergic food.
Start Treating Your Food Allergies Today
If you are experiencing the symptoms of a food allergy, it’s time to get a diagnosis. Chacko Food Allergy Treatment Center provides food allergy testing and treatment from locations in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth and Johns Creek. Request an appointment online or by calling (678) 668-4688.
Image Credit – Africa Studio/Shutterstock.com