Asthma Allergy Clinic - Siddhi Polyclinic

An immunologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the study of the immune system, its functions, and its disorders. They are trained to diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases and disorders related to the immune system, such as allergies, autoimmune diseases, and immune deficiency disorders.

Some of the main tasks that an immunologist performs include:

• Diagnose and treat immune system disorders.
• Prescribing medication, such as immunosuppressants, to manage the symptoms of autoimmune disorders.
• Administering immunotherapy, such as allergy shots, to help desensitize patients to allergens.
• Advising patients on lifestyle changes and management strategies to help reduce symptoms.
• Coordinating care with other specialists such as rheumatologists, allergists, and hematologists.
• Conducting research to improve understanding of the immune system and develop new treatments for immune-related disorders.

An allergist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of allergies and immune system disorders. They are trained to identify and manage a wide range of allergic and immune-mediated conditions, including:

• Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
• Asthma
• Eczema (atopic dermatitis)
• Food allergies
• Drug allergies
• Insect sting allergies
• Anaphylaxis
• Chronic hives (urticaria)
• Immunodeficiency disorders

Some of the main tasks that an allergist performs include:

• Conducting skin tests and other diagnostic tests to identify the specific allergens that are causing symptoms
• Prescribing medication, such as antihistamines, to manage the symptoms of allergies
• Administering immunotherapy, such as allergy shots, to help desensitize patients to allergens
• Advising patients on lifestyle changes and management strategies to help reduce symptoms
• Coordinating care with other specialists such as pulmonologists, immunologists, and dermatologists
• Conducting research to improve understanding of allergies and develop new treatments

There are several different tests that allergists use to diagnose allergies, including:

1. Skin prick test: A small amount of allergen extract is placed on the skin, usually on the arm or back, and a small prick is made through the extract with a needle. This test is used to identify immediate allergic reactions to various allergens.
2. Intradermal test: Similar to the skin prick test, but the allergen extract is injected into the skin using a small needle. This test is used to identify allergies to specific allergens, such as venom from insect stings.
3. Blood test: A blood sample is taken and sent to a laboratory for analysis. These tests are used to measure the level of allergen-specific antibodies in the blood, which can indicate an allergic reaction. These are also called RAST (Radioallergosorbent test)
4. Patch test: A small patch containing an allergen extract is applied to the skin, usually on the back, and worn for 48 hours. This test is used to identify delayed allergic reactions to allergens that come into contact with the skin, such as poison ivy or nickel.
5. Challenge test: An allergist will give a small dose of allergen to the patient under close medical supervision, usually through the nose or mouth. This test is used to confirm a diagnosis of a food allergy or an allergy to a medication.

These tests help allergists to identify the specific allergens that are causing symptoms, and then make recommendations for treatment and management of the allergies.

A general consultation with a doctor is an appointment where a patient meets with a physician to discuss their health concerns and receive medical advice. The purpose of a general consultation is to evaluate a patient's current health status and address any symptoms or problems they may be experiencing.

• During the consultation, the doctor will take a detailed medical history and ask the patient about their symptoms, any previous medical conditions or treatments, and any medications they are currently taking.
• They will also perform a physical examination, which may include measuring vital signs such as blood pressure, temperature, and pulse.
• Based on the information gathered during the consultation, the doctor will make a diagnosis and recommend a course of treatment.
• This may include prescribing medication, ordering diagnostic tests, or referring the patient to a specialist for further evaluation or treatment.
• Additionally, the doctor will also give the patient advice on how to maintain their health, prevent illness, and manage chronic conditions, as well as provide health education and answer any questions the patient might have.

Overall, a general consultation with a doctor is an opportunity for a patient to discuss their health concerns and receive medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment recommendations from a qualified healthcare professional.

During a general consultation, the doctor will typically perform the following steps:

1. Take a detailed medical history: The doctor will ask the patient about their symptoms, any previous medical conditions or treatments, and any medications they are currently taking. They will also ask about the patient's family medical history and any lifestyle factors that may be relevant to the patient's health.

2. Perform a physical examination: The doctor will examine the patient's body, looking for any signs of illness or injury. This may include measuring vital signs such as blood pressure, temperature, and pulse. They may also perform a general physical examination, such as examining the ears, nose, throat, eyes, and skin.

3. Make a diagnosis and recommend a course of treatment: Based on the information gathered during the consultation, the doctor will make a diagnosis and recommend a course of treatment. This may include prescribing medication, ordering diagnostic tests, or referring the patient to a specialist for further evaluation or treatment.

4. Give health advice and answer any questions: The doctor will give the patient advice on how to maintain their health, prevent illness, and manage chronic conditions. They will also answer any questions the patient might have about their condition, treatment, and how to manage symptoms.

5. Follow-up: The doctor will schedule a follow-up visit or call

There are many different reasons why a person may need to visit a general medical consultation. Some common reasons include:

1. New symptoms or changes in health: If a person is experiencing new symptoms or changes in their health, such as a persistent cough, fever, or weight loss, they may need to see a doctor for a general consultation.
2. Chronic conditions: If a person has a chronic condition, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, they may need to see a doctor regularly to manage their condition and monitor their health.
3. Routine check-ups: Regular check-ups are important for maintaining good health, and a general medical consultation is a good opportunity for a person to discuss any health concerns with a doctor and receive advice on maintaining their health.
4. Physical exam for work or school: Some professions or institutions may require regular physical exams, a general medical consultation is a good opportunity for a person to receive a physical exam and a medical certificate.
5. Preventive care: Preventive care includes screenings and check-ups that help to identify health problems early, when they are most treatable. A general medical consultation is a good opportunity for a person to receive preventive care and learn about ways to maintain good health.

Overall, a general medical consultation is an opportunity for a person to discuss any health concerns with a doctor,