Allergy Center in Savannah and Pooler, GA
The initial step in the treatment of an allergy is an accurate diagnosis by an allergist or immunologist. It involves deciding whether the patient’s symptoms are caused by an allergy and, if so, determining what triggers the allergy as accurately as possible. The resulting diagnosis will target the appropriate treatment or clinical intervention to allow avoidance of the allergic trigger which will help to eliminate or minimize symptoms.
An accurate diagnosis is obtained using a combination of approaches and tests that can include skin-pricks and blood tests to identify and confirm a diagnosis.
The initial step in the treatment of an allergy is an accurate diagnosis by our board certified immunologist. At our Allergy Center we test for seasonal and environmental allergens. Many allergens have cross reactions, which means if you are allergic to one type of grass, you are typically allergic to another. For this reason, we test for the main 22 allergens instead of charging our patients for unnecessary tests. Treatment covers all cross allergens so our patients are covered, without the extra costs. We tailor our testing to our patients. We will discuss your desired treatment and perform the appropriate type of allergy test for you. Not all treatments quire needles, so testing shouldn’t either.
SLIT treatment is a drop taken under the tongue to treat seasonal and environmental allergies. SLIT is a good fit for patients who are over 18, who would rather avoid needles, and want to minimize office visits. SLIT can be a great option for self pay patients who find it more cost effective than other treatments. Patients can pick up their drops every 10 weeks, but are only required to be seen by our provider every 6 months.
For patients 5 and older, traditional immunotherapy might be a good option to treat their allergies. Quick absorption gives relief faster and with injections only once per week, it can be beneficial to patients who don’t want to take medication every day. Some insurance companies cover shots at a low copay so this may be a good option for patients who are concerned with price.
Oral tablets are a great option for busy patients who don’t mind taking a tablet every day and don’t have time to come into the office regularly. Oral tablets are often covered by insurance, and additional copay assistance may be available.Treatment takes 3-5 years, and will resolve symptoms for 10-15 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the first step in treating an allergy?
The first step is an accurate diagnosis by a board-certified allergist or immunologist. This involves determining whether your symptoms are caused by an allergy and identifying the specific triggers. A precise diagnosis allows us to create a treatment plan that minimizes or eliminates your symptoms.
How do you diagnose allergies?
We use a combination of approaches, including:
- Skin-prick tests
- Blood tests
Testing helps identify environmental allergens (like pollen, mold, and dust) and food allergens (such as nuts, dairy, or shellfish). We focus on testing the main 22 allergens, which often covers cross-reacting allergens and reduces unnecessary testing and costs.
At what age can allergy testing begin?
Allergy testing can begin at age 5, making it possible to identify and treat allergies early in children.
Do I need to stop taking allergy medication before testing?
Yes. To ensure accurate results, patients should avoid allergy medications for 5 days prior to allergy testing unless instructed otherwise by your provider.
What allergens do you test for?
We test for:
- Environmental allergens: pollens, grasses, molds, dust, pet dander
- Food allergens: nuts, dairy, eggs, shellfish, and others
Because many allergens have cross-reactions, testing the main allergens ensures comprehensive coverage without extra costs.
Do all allergy treatments involve injections?
No. Treatments vary, and not all require needles. Your treatment plan will be tailored to your needs and preferences. Options include:
- SLIT (Sublingual Immunotherapy) drops
- Traditional allergy shots
- Oral allergy tablets
What is SLIT treatment?
SLIT (Sublingual Immunotherapy) is a drop taken under the tongue to treat seasonal and environmental allergies. It’s ideal for patients:
- Over 18
- Who want to avoid needles
- Who prefer fewer office visits
Patients pick up their drops every 10 weeks and are only required to see our provider every 6 months. SLIT can also be a cost-effective option for self-pay patients.
What about traditional allergy shots?
Traditional immunotherapy (allergy shots) is suitable for patients 5 years and older. Benefits include:
- Faster symptom relief due to quick absorption
- Weekly injections rather than daily medication
- Some insurance plans cover shots with a low copay, making this a budget-friendly option
How do oral allergy tablets work?
Oral tablets are ideal for busy patients who can take a tablet daily and cannot visit the office regularly. Key points:
- Often covered by insurance, with copay assistance available
- Treatment typically lasts 3–5 years
- Provides symptom relief for 10–15 years
How do you determine which treatment is best for me?
We discuss your treatment preferences, lifestyle, and goals to determine the most suitable option. Testing and treatment are customized to your individual needs.
Reviewed by the board-certified ENTs doctors at Coastal Ear, Nose & Throat
Still have questions? Ask one of our ENT doctors!