Faced with signs suggesting an allergy, the advice of an Allergist in Elizabethtown KY is a must. He or she will work diligently to find the cause of the allergy and implement preventive measures accompanied by an appropriate treatment. The diagnosis of an allergist is based on an examination of the patient and the use of skin tests that can be accompanied by provocation tests and blood tests, all of which confirms the diagnosis. The examination represents a fundamental step in the first consultation. It allows the Allergist in Elizabethtown KY to determine what allergic manifestations are evident. The first list of allergens is established during this appointment. This must be a rigorous and meticulous consult as it allows the professional to search for things like:
* The reasons for the consultation
* Family history of allergy (parents, uncles, aunts, cousins…)
* Personal history of other allergies or other diseases
* The precise description of allergic symptoms, the first symptoms until the day of the consultation
Afterward, other things are reviewed:
* The criteria and time frame during the appearance of different symptoms
* The aggravating or improvement factors
* The role of holidays and weekends directed to a probability of occupational cause
* The influence of place and climate
Allergic manifestations that occur inside or outside of a dwelling can guide the physician. Lifestyle, habits and environment of the allergy sufferer are also important. The patient’s residential environment should be described accurately. The question is whether feathers are present in the duvet and pillow, if there are dusty wall hangings, carpets, what the nature of the heating and cooling of the room is if there are any plants or animals, and so on. A person’s travel, diet, entertainment and eating habits are also called into question. The effectiveness of anti-allergy treatments previously prescribed is reviewed.
Patch testing is recommended when searching for the cause of eczema and other skin disorders. Test patches containing low amounts of suspected allergens are applied to the skin and stay in place for two days. A reading grid for interpreting the test results are used to identify the allergens. A positive reaction means that the allergen tested can be responsible for contact dermatitis. Visit Dr. Smith to learn more.
