An allergist/immunologist (commonly referred to as an allergist) is a physician specially trained to diagnose, treat and manage allergies, asthma and immune deficiencies, including primary immunodeficiency disorders. These conditions range from the very common to the very rare, spanning all ages and encompassing various organ systems. In the United States, becoming an allergist / immunologist requires at least an additional nine years of training beyond a bachelor’s degree.

After completing medical school and graduating with a medical degree, physicians undergo three years of training in internal medicine or pediatrics and pass the exam of either the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) or the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP). Internists and pediatricians interested in becoming an allergist / immunologist have at least an additional two years of study, called a fellowship, in an allergy / immunology training program.

Allergist/immunologists listed as ABAI-certified have successfully passed the certifying examination of the American Board of Allergy and Immunology (ABAI).

When should you see an allergist? 

If you feel like you’re always getting sick, with a cough or head congestion, it’s time to see an allergist. Often, the symptoms of asthma or allergies develop gradually over time and as a result, your quality of life becomes poorer.

Allergy sufferers may become used to frequent symptoms such as sneezing, nasal congestion or wheezing. With the help of an allergist, these symptoms usually can be prevented or controlled with major improvement in quality of life. Our providers have specialized training and can develop a treatment plan for your individual condition. The goal will be to enable you to lead a life that is as normal and symptom-free as possible.

You should see an allergist if:

• Your allergies are causing symptoms such as chronic sinus infections, nasal congestion or difficulty breathing.
• You experience hay fever or other allergy symptoms several months out of the year.
• Antihistamines and over-the-counter medications do not control your allergy symptoms or create unacceptable side effects, such as drowsiness.
• Your asthma or allergies are interfering with your ability to carry on day-to-day activities.
• Your asthma or allergies decrease the quality of your life.
• You are experiencing warning signs of serious asthma such as:
  • You sometimes have to struggle to catch your breath.
  • You often wheeze or cough, especially at night or after exercise.
  • You are frequently short of breath or feel tightness in your chest.
  • You have previously been diagnosed with asthma, and you have frequent asthma attacks even though you are taking asthma medication.

Give us a call at Allergy & Asthma Specialists at 219-805-4244 and take back control of your allergy, asthma, and life!