Why Consult an Allergist for Potential Food Allergies: A Guide for Clear Understanding

Many people wonder, why would you consult an expert in allergies if you think you may have an allergy? The answer is straightforward yet profound—it's the only way to find out how serious your allergy is. Food allergies can be VERY DANGEROUS, and knowing for sure whether you have a genuine reaction is crucial for your health and well-being.

The Seriousness of Allergies

As a 30-year Allergy Immunologist, I can say with confidence that there are too many people who do not understand how horrific allergies can get. If left unmanaged, food and other allergies can worsen over time, leading to severe complications. It's essential to seek professional help early to prevent this progression.

Early Food Allergy Elimination

One significant advantage of recognizing a food allergy early is the simplicity of managing it. If you identify the allergen, stopping its consumption can eliminate the allergy almost entirely. The immune system's existing antibodies will gradually die off over time, with about 50 antibodies disappearing each month. I've personally experienced this with allergies to cats, food, and dust, becoming symptom-free within two months.

For example, I have never eaten a peanut, even though I'm not allergic to them. Peanut allergies are particularly severe and often incurable. It's important to be cautious with allergens that can't be eliminated through dietary changes, as avoiding them completely is the best approach to maintaining a healthy life.

Understanding Your Allergies

When dealing with potential food allergies, it's crucial to identify all the allergens affecting you. Common allergens include foods (such as peanuts, shellfish, and milk), dust, and pet dander. Each person may have different levels of sensitivity to various allergens. Some allergens can be cross-reactive, leading to similar symptoms from different substances.

Key Questions to Ask: What am I allergic to? How do I know I am allergic to the specific allergen? Could it be cross-reactivity? Which allergen am I most allergic to?

Timeframe for Allergy Elimination

When will the allergy go away? This is a question many allergy patients ask, and the answer varies widely. If your doctor suggests that the allergy will never go away or that it will persist indefinitely, consider seeking a second opinion. Early and proper diagnosis and management can often lead to a complete elimination of the allergy over time.

Testing and Diagnosis

There are multiple ways to test for food allergies, but not all methods are equally reliable. It's highly recommended to follow a comprehensive testing approach that includes blood testing with the ELISA method and a CAP certified lab. Skin prick testing is generally not recommended because it can lead to a permanent labeling of supposed allergies, which can be detrimental in the long term.

When conducting allergy tests, ensure you:

Identify all your allergens. Avoid all identified allergens. Get tested for common allergens such as pollen, weeds, trees, grass, dust, and pet dander. Test all the foods you eat at least three times a week.

Selecting the Right Allergist

To get an accurate diagnosis, you should choose an allergist who uses only ELISA-based blood tests and is CAP certified. Additionally, look for allergists who have an AHLAM certified air purifier, as the quality of air purification devices can significantly impact your symptoms. Do not settle for less; your health is at stake.

Using Online Resources

To help manage your allergies, there are useful online resources available. Your doctor can call the lab and obtain a Provider ID for an online app that streamlines the allergy management process. This app can assist in tracking your symptoms and identifying potential triggers, making your allergy management more efficient.

Ensure you follow the instructions correctly to use the app effectively. When you get to the final screen, click the question marks to understand the results. Share the findings with your doctor to discuss further steps.

Conclusion

Food allergies can be very simple to manage if you start dealing with them immediately. Identifying and avoiding allergens, coupled with proper testing and professional advice, can significantly improve your quality of life. No one should have to live a miserable life due to untreated allergies. Take control of your health and consult a qualified allergist to ensure you are on the right path.