How can we find out what we’re allergic to without being exposed to it?
There are 2 ways you can find out what you are allergic to. You can have a blood test, called RAST testing (RadioAllergoSorbent Testing) which evaluates the specific IgE, or you can have Allergy Skin Testing to evaluate specific indoor and outdoor inhalant allergens as well as foods. I prefer to do allergy skin testing because results are immediate and I can start treating my patients immediately.
What are the options if you can’t afford the Epi-pen?
Brand name EpiPens have gotten very expensive. Other brand name epinephrine includes AuviQ as well. There are generic epinephrine injectors that are available for much cheaper prices. In addition, in certain cases, although doesn’t last as an Epi-pen, an allergist or specialized MD can prepare injectable epinephrine for you for usage in emergency the same day, but preservation and storage is an issue in these circumstances. So for longevity, best to get commercial branded or generic epinephrine.
Is avoidance the only solution for Oral Allergy Syndrome?
I love treating Oral Allergy Syndrome. Avoidance is not the only solution. At vitalallergy.com, we now treat Oral Allergy Syndrome with either allergen immunotherapy, in which desensitization to the pollens that cross react with those specific fruits and vegetables results in reduction of tolerance; or oral immunotherapy, in which we desensitize orally using small concentrations and increasing the foods over 6-9-12 months, thereby inducing tolerance orally.
I’m allergic to shellfish and when I smell it, my eyes start watering and then I start throwing up, what can I do to counter that? After hearing about people passing from allergies, I have gotten really scared. What are my options?
At our practice if vitalallergy.com, as well as some allergy practices across the country, we now can treat you with oral immunotherapy, in which we induce tolerance to the shellfish over 9-12 months. Before we treat the food allergy & anaphylaxis, we evaluate for concomitant indoor and outdoor allergic responses, treat that 1st with allergy shots, then treat with oral desensitization thereafter.
Dr. Carlos Vital is board-certified in adult & pediatric allergy, asthma, & immunology. Dr. Vital received his bachelor’s degree from Xavier University and his medical degree from Louisiana State University School of Medicine.
