Do you often find yourself sneezing, wheezing, or dealing with a runny nose? These common symptoms might be indicative of allergies. Dr. Mihir Mehta, your trusted ENT Specialist, can help you uncover the triggers behind your discomfort through comprehensive allergy tests.
Allergies occur when your immune system reacts to substances in the environment that are usually harmless. These substances, known as allergens, can range from pollen and dust mites to pet dander and certain foods. When your body identifies an allergen, it releases chemicals that cause allergy symptoms.
Allergy tests are essential to pinpoint the specific allergens that affect you. They are invaluable for several reasons:
Accurate Diagnosis: Allergy tests allow for a precise diagnosis. Knowing exactly what you’re allergic to is the first step in managing your symptoms effectively.
Tailored Treatment: Once your allergies are identified, Dr. Mihir Mehta can create a personalized treatment plan. This might include allergen avoidance strategies, medications, or allergen-specific immunotherapy.
Prevention: Allergy tests also help in preventing severe allergic reactions. For instance, if you have a severe peanut allergy, knowing this can help you avoid potentially life-threatening situations.
Dr. Mihir Mehta offers various types of allergy tests to suit your specific needs:
Skin Prick Test: This is one of the most common allergy tests. Small amounts of allergens are applied to your skin through tiny punctures. If you are allergic, you will develop a small, itchy bump at the test site.
Blood Test: A blood sample is taken and analyzed to measure the amount of allergy-related antibodies (IgE) in your bloodstream. This can identify allergies to specific substances.
Patch Test: This test is often used to diagnose allergic skin conditions such as contact dermatitis. Small amounts of allergens are applied to patches, which are then placed on your skin for a set period.
Intradermal Test: Similar to the skin prick test, but a small amount of the allergen is injected under the skin. This test is more sensitive but may also produce more false-positive results.
Allergen-Specific IGE Tests: These blood tests are highly specific and can identify allergies to particular allergens like certain foods or drugs.
As an ENT Specialist, Dr. Mihir Mehta is uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat allergic conditions that affect the ears, nose, and throat. He offers: