Visiting a food allergy specialist is an important first step if you have an allergic reaction to milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts and other foods. With the appropriate care, you can reduce the risks of severe allergy symptoms as part of a personalized food allergy treatment plan. But what can you expect from an appointment with a food allergy doctor? Here’s what typically happens during your first visit to an allergist.
What Happens During the First Food Allergy Appointment
The approach taken by a food allergy specialist during the first visit can vary depending on factors like a patient’s medication, symptoms and potential risk of severe reactions. Most appointments will feature the following stages.
1. Discuss Food Allergy Symptoms
During the appointment, your food allergy specialist will want to know more about your symptoms. Important details will include what symptoms you get after eating certain foods, how long after eating do you notice a reaction, whether you always get symptoms from this food, as well as how much you eat.
2. Evaluate Medical History
Your allergy specialist will want to learn about your personal and family history of allergies. If you have other allergies, eczema or asthma, these issues will likely be discussed as well. Patients will also have an opportunity to ask the food allergy doctor any questions.
3. Perform a Physical Examination
During a physical examination the doctor will check for physical signs of food allergy symptoms, such as skin rashes and hives. They will also examine your nasal passages and throat for signs of swelling. In addition, the physical exam may include basic health measurements like height, weight and blood pressure.
4. Conduct Food Allergy Testing
Food allergy testing is sometimes performed during the first visit, though it may be scheduled for a subsequent appointment. If a patient takes medication that could interfere with results or if more information is required, an appointment can be made for a skin prick or blood test.
5. Provide a Food Allergy Diagnosis
When a skin prick allergy test is performed, signs of a reaction usually appear within 15–20 minutes. Along with the information gathered earlier, your food allergy specialist will use these testing results to diagnose your allergy(ies).
6. Create a Food Allergy Management Plan
If food allergy testing is performed during your first visit, your allergist can develop a comprehensive management plan based on the results. When testing is scheduled for a follow-up appointment, you’ll receive an initial plan focused on avoiding suspected allergens and handling potential reactions. Treatment options like oral immunotherapy may be discussed once your allergies are confirmed.
Visit Atlanta’s Leading Food Allergy Specialists
If you or your child have food allergy symptoms, we’re here to help with expert allergy testing and treatment. Our food allergy specialists will help you manage allergy symptoms and reduce the risks of an allergic reaction. Call (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment today.
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