Why refer your patients to an allergist?

Allergists and their teams, which may include advanced practice providers who specialize in allergy and immunology, are trained and experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of allergic diseases and related conditions that affect the whole body. These include asthma, allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, atopic dermatitis, rashes, and hives, as well as allergic reactions to inhalants, foods, insect stings, and drugs.

Consider referring your patient to an allergist if:

• Their allergies are causing chronic sinus infections, nasal congestion or breathing difficulties.
• They are experiencing allergic rhinitis or other allergy symptoms during several months of the year.
• Antihistamines and over-the-counter medications do not control their allergy symptoms, or these medications create additional side effects, such as drowsiness.
• Their asthma or allergy symptoms are interfering with day-to-day activities.
• Their asthma or allergies decrease their quality of life.
• They are experiencing warning signs of serious asthma, such as –
  • Wheezing or coughing, especially at night or after exercise.
  • Shortness of breath or chest tightness.
  • Frequent asthma attacks despite taking asthma medication following an asthma diagnosis.

The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology offers a free Asthma and Allergy Symptom Test to help you determine when to refer patients with allergy and asthma symptoms to an allergist.

Allergists test for asthma with a spirometer. An allergist may also ask the patient to use an inhaler and then use the spirometer again so that the allergist can read the difference in results. Other testing methods — for asthma and for allergies to inhalants, foods, insect stings, and drugs — include skin tests, blood tests and chest X-rays.

Many effective medications are available for treating the different types of asthma. Most people with asthma need both quick-relief medications and long-term control medications. Immunotherapy and biologics can also be helpful.

For allergic asthma, effective treatment includes identifying allergens that trigger symptoms so that patients can avoid exposure, using drug therapies and developing an emergency action plan for severe attacks. 

An allergist will create an individualized plan for your patient that determines the most effective methods for keeping their asthma under control, based on their symptoms and lifestyle.

Allergists are trained in providing cutting-edge therapeutics. Effective allergy treatments and therapies include:

• Subcutaneous and sublingual immunotherapy.
• Oral immunotherapy for some food allergies.
• Biologics for asthma, atopic dermatitis, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps, and chronic hives.
• Medications such as decongestants, antihistamines, and steroids.

Board-certified allergists and their teams, which can include advanced practice providers and other practitioners, are qualified to care for both children and adults.

Use ACAAI’s Find an Allergist tool to locate an allergist in your area.