What is allergology?

Allergology deals with the study, diagnosis and treatment of allergies – food, respiratory and skin allergies being among the most common. Allergies are the immune system's response to substances, known as allergens. For most people, these substances are harmless. However, some people have a reaction when exposed to them. Allergens are found in certain foods, the air (such as pollens, air pollutants, moulds), everyday objects (bedding, metal objects, etc., ) drugs, the venom of certain insects, and domestic pets (such as dogs, cats and horses). Patients can consult an allergy specialist at a hospital or a private medical practice.
 

When should you consult an allergist?

While it is recommended that you first consult your family doctor, you should make an appointment with an allergist if a chronic disorder (such as rhinitis, bronchitis, asthma, eczema, urticarial (skin) rash, conjunctivitis, infant bronchiolitis...) is thought to be caused by allergens. If there are any signs of severe allergic reactions, such as a swelling of the facial tissues, breathing problems, or collapse and loss of consciousness, emergency medical care should be sought immediately. Patients at risk of severe allergic reactions should be closely monitored by an allergist.

What types of allergies can be diagnosed and treated?

There are several types of allergies: food allergies (peanuts, fruit, cow's milk protein, meat), dust mite (tiny bugs that commonly live in house dust in mattresses, carpets and furniture), animals (feathered or furry animals, insects), pollens (trees, herbaceous plants and grasses), the sun, latex, mould and certain metals. Symptoms of allergies can include breathing disorders (rhinitis, bronchitis, asthma), skin conditions (eczema, urticaria, or hives), as well as nervousness and digestive problems.

How are allergies treated?

The allergy specialist starts by asking about the symptoms involved and the situations that trigger them, along with your home and work environment, your past medical history and any drugs that you take. To identify what substances might be causing the allergy, the allergist performs skin prick tests, which is the main way to determine the best treatment. If possible, you will be advised to avoid exposure to the substance suspected to be the cause. You may also be prescribed treatment to relieve the symptoms, but this only provides short-term relief. Desensitisation (allergen immunotherapy) is the only form of therapy known to reduce symptoms in the long term. It involves gradually exposing the patient to small doses of the allergen so that their immune system can learn a degree of tolerance.