You may have heard some strange or scary things about what happens during a visit to an allergist, but rest assured that technology and medical knowledge have made great strides in keeping you comfortable while the allergy doctor figures out what is causing your miserable symptoms. You should soon be able to effectively control your allergies.
Let’s talk about how you can prepare for your appointment with the allergist, what to expect during your time with the doctor, and where you can go in Weatherford for top-of-the-line allergy care to keep your symptoms at bay for good.
How to Prepare for Your First Visit with an Allergist
You probably have a number of thoughts and questions you want to bring up with the doctor, so be sure not to let yourself get tongue-tied and forget what your questions are when the moment comes. Write them down on a piece of paper and keep them in your bag or your wallet so you have it ready.
Examples of questions that should be answered during the appointment include:
- What am I allergic to?
- How can I prevent future reactions?
- What should I do when I have an allergic reaction?
- Must I use medication? Can it be treated without medication? What side effects are associated with the medication?
- What lifestyle changes do I need to make to improve my condition?
- What can make my allergy symptoms worse?
Note: Some doctors do not feel comfortable with patients using their cell phones in the office – they may be a bit concerned that a patient may be surreptitiously taking pictures or video or an audio recording of the appointment. That is why it is best to write it down on paper.
You will be asked to write down specifics about your medical history, your family’s medical history (parents, siblings, children), and also any medications and supplements you are taking. Medical history includes previous hospitalizations, surgeries, treatments, and diagnoses, as well as your current symptoms.
Be ready to describe your allergy symptoms, what you suspect triggers them, how long the reaction lasts, and what you have tried to quell your symptoms.
What to Expect During the Physical Exam and Tests
An allergy doctor usually performs a physical exam on your first visit. If necessary, the physician will conduct allergy testing. This may include tiny skin-prick tests, blood tests, and pulmonary (lung) function tests.
Types of Allergy Treatments
The allergy doctor will then make a diagnosis based on your medical history, symptoms, and the results of the tests. Your allergy doctor will explain your type of allergy and what triggers it. Therefore, your treatment plan will include how to avoid your triggers.
The doctor may prescribe antihistamines or inhalers to treat your particular type of allergy. You can expect to be given detailed instructions on when and how to take the medication.
Allergy Doctor in Weatherford, TX
The experienced physicians here at Lung & Sleep Specialists of North Texas are highly skilled in treating patients who have allergies. We are also adept in pulmonary medicine, and this specialization allows us to treat patients who have asthma and other lung conditions that can exacerbate allergy symptoms.
To schedule an appointment, call us today at (817) 594-9993 or fill out our online request form now. We serve Tarrant County, Parker County, and the surrounding areas, and we look forward to serving you!
