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What an allergist-immunologist does

An allergist, or clinical immunologist, is a doctor who diagnoses and treats allergies and disorders of the immune system. Training is usually an MD in Medicine, Paediatrics or Chest Medicine followed by additional training or a fellowship in allergy and immunology. Allergy is increasingly common in India because of air pollution, dust, changing diets and urban living, and untreated allergy can worsen asthma, sleep and school or work performance.

Common problems treated

• Allergic rhinitis: sneezing, runny or blocked nose, itchy eyes and throat.
• Asthma triggered by dust, pollen, smoke, cold air or infections.
• Hives (urticaria), eczema and angioedema (swelling of lips or eyelids).
• Food allergy: reactions to milk, egg, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, fish or shellfish.
• Drug allergy and insect-sting allergy.
• Recurrent infections that may suggest an immune deficiency.

Anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction with swelling of the face or throat, wheeze, dizziness or collapse, is an emergency. It needs an adrenaline injection and hospital care; call 108.

How allergies are diagnosed

The history is the most important part: what you were exposed to, how quickly symptoms began and how long they lasted. Tests include skin-prick tests, blood tests such as total IgE, specific IgE allergy panels and absolute eosinophil count, lung function tests for asthma, and supervised food or drug challenges. A positive test shows sensitisation but is meaningful only when it matches your symptoms, so avoid cutting out foods based on a test alone.

Treatment

Management starts with avoiding triggers where possible, such as dust-proof bedding, humidity control and keeping pets out of the bedroom. Medicines include antihistamines, nasal steroid sprays, inhalers, and for people at risk of severe reactions an adrenaline auto-injector with a written action plan. Allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots or tablets) can reduce sensitivity over time in selected patients with pollen, dust-mite or insect-venom allergy.

Fees and choosing

Consultation fees commonly range from about ₹500 to ₹1,500 and may vary; tests are charged separately. Choose a doctor with training in allergy, who confirms diagnoses with tests and explains the plan, and be wary of unproven "allergy cures". Compare allergy specialists and book on Lab Dekho.

Trusted References

This guide is original content informed by recognised medical and public-health sources. For further reading:

• NABH – hospital accreditation standards
• NABL – laboratory accreditation
• Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY
• Ministry of Health & Family Welfare
• Mayo Clinic – Patient care & health information
• Cleveland Clinic – Health Library
• WebMD – Health A–Z

Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Costs and fees are approximate and vary by provider. Institution names are given for orientation only; check current services and timings directly. In an emergency, call 108 or 112.