The diagnosis of allergic diseases is based on the patient’s
clinical history, family history, physical examination, skin tests and
laboratory tests. The tests serve to confirm the diagnosis of allergic disease
and to identify potential allergic triggers, knowledge that is useful to guide
allergen avoidance strategies.
Your doctor uses the following information to make a
diagnosis of allergy:
-
History:
The diagnosis of allergy begins with a
clinical history.Your doctor will
ask questions about your general health and then will focus on allergies
and conditions that commonly coexist with allergic disorders. Your doctor will need to know all the
symptoms that are troubling you.
-
Family
History: Your doctor will ask you whether any of your close relatives
have allergic symptoms and whether they have been diagnosed with an allergic
disorder such as asthma, hay fever, eczema, or allergic sensitivity to
foods or medications.
-
Physical
Exam: Your doctor will perform a complete physical exam with special
emphasis on eyes, ears, nose, throat, chest and skin
-
Allergy
Tests:
Allergy tests will likely be performed to determine whether you
are allergic and what you are allergic to. Skin tests are carried out by applying
drops of allergens to your skin and then scratching though them and/or or by
testing the blood sensitizing antibodies.
Reasons to See an Allergy Expert
Many people with allergies see a family doctor for allergy
care. You may choose to visit a board-certified allergist, a doctor who specializes
in allergies. . Here are a few reasons for seeing an allergy specialist:
- Your
symptoms interfere in your daily activities.
- Your
symptoms are getting worse.
- You
are concerned about side effects of medicine.
- Your
regular doctor refers you to an expert for specialized tests.
NEXT: Your History
This information has been approved by Henry Milgrom, MD (March 2009).
