According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, more than 100 million people in the United States have some type of allergy. Allergic reactions are a common cause for medical visits, with the effects ranging from simply annoying to life-threatening.
There are multiple types of allergies, and there are many different types of allergic reactions. Allergy symptoms may include respiratory issues like sneezing and a runny or stuffy nose, itchy skin, hives, itchy or watery eyes or gastrointestinal issues such as nausea or vomiting.
If you are experiencing symptoms that could be related to an allergy, your primary care provider may refer you to an allergy specialist with Hattiesburg Clinic. An allergy specialist, also called an allergist or immunologist, will perform testing to determine whether you are dealing with an allergy and what is causing your allergy symptoms.
There are several different types of allergy tests. Your allergist will determine the best test for you based on a number of factors, including the symptoms you are experiencing and what is thought to be triggering those symptoms. Testing may include:
If a skin prick test is inconclusive, an intradermal skin test may be recommended. For this test, a small amount of a potential allergen is injected into the outer layer of the skin.
If you are dealing with uncomfortable or potentially dangerous symptoms that may be related to an allergy, the team of allergy specialists at Hattiesburg Clinic is here to help. We provide allergy testing and comprehensive treatment options for the full spectrum of allergies, offered at facilities conveniently located across our communities.