Allergy Questions - Francisco J. Cano, M.D.

At what age can allergy testing be done?: Depending on what allergy we are testing for we can test at any age.

If I have allergies what are my treatment options?: Allergies are treated by avoidance of the allergens, medications to treat symptoms and allergy desensitization (shots or sublingual)

How do I know what I’m allergic to?: A skin test is performed to determine if you have allergies

How long will it take to determine if I have allergies?: We will do skin testing at your first appointment and within 1 hour we will determine what allergies you have.

How do you know what bee I’m allergic to?: We will do a skin test to determine this

If I have a bee allergy what can I do?: First you must always carry your Epipen; second we can give you injections to desensitize you to the bee you are allergic to.

How often do I have to get shots?: Weekly for the first 5 to 6 months, and then every 2-4 weeks.

Can I give injections to myself?: Due to safety reasons injections must be given under the direct supervision of a physician.

Is there any other option for allergy treatment besides shots?: Sublingual immunotherapy is an option however sublingual immunotherapy is not very effective in patient with multiple allergies.

At what age can allergy shots be started?: Depending on the severity of your allergies shots may be started at 2 or 3 years of age.

How long do I have to be on bee shots?: At least five years and depending on the severity of the original reaction. After five years of injections we will retest you and determine if you need to continue shots.

How often do I get bee shots?: Weekly for the first 5 to 6 months then monthly there after for 5 years.

If I get stung while on shots what should I do?: If it’s during the time you are coming weekly for injections you need to use your Epipen and go to the emergency room. If you are on maintenance as long as you are not having symptoms nothing needs done. Either way our office needs notified so we can advise you when to come for your next injection.

Why are Inhaled Corticosteroids used, and what are the potential side effects?: Inhaled corticosteroids are the most effective medications to reduce airway inflammation and mucus production. The use of these medications leads to better symptom control, with fewer symptoms, flare ups, and need for hospitalization. Inhaled steroids have very few side effects. It is rare but on occasion oral thrush or hoarseness may occur. Rinsing the mouth or gargling after each use will help prevent these symptoms.

How can I prevent coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness during or after exercise?: You should not avoid exercise because of exercise induced asthma. Inhaled medications taken prior to exercise can control and prevent exercise induced asthma symptoms. The preferred medications are short acting Beta 2-agonists such as Albuterol or Xopenex

What causes an asthma attack?: A number of different triggers can cause asthma symptoms or an asthma attack. -Infections, usually those caused by a virus (e.g. colds or flu) -Allergies, most commonly from dust mites, pets, or pollens -Exercise/Play, especially in cold weather -Smoking (parents of asthmatic children should not smoke.) -Changes in weather -Irritants, such as: air pollution, perfumes, and chemicals It is important to remember that if asthma is properly treated you can enjoy long periods without symptoms or an attack.

What is the difference between a food allergy and a food intolerance?: A food intolerance is an adverse food induced reaction which does not involve the immune system. For example someone may have lactose intolerance which involves the sugar in milk. Common side effects may include, gas, bloating and abdominal pain. A true food allergy is immune system related. The body forms IgE antibodies to the food. When these antibodies react with the food protein, it may cause hives, breathing problems or other allergic reactions.

How are food allergies diagnosed?: After a detailed history is obtained, allergy testing can be done. Skin testing can be done in the doctor’s office to attempt to identify the offending food. Another common test, RAST testing, is a blood test which can also be used in the diagnosis of food allergy.

Is there a cure for food allergies?: Although research is ongoing, the only way to prevent a reaction is strict avoidance of the offending food. Some food allergies can be outgrown in time, others may be considered life long allergies.