Spring and Summer 2011 have been among the worst allergy seasons on record. Many Chicago area residents experienced runny noses, itchy eyes and sinus-like symptoms. The good news for all allergy sufferers is that your primary care physician can help treat many of your allergy symptoms and you don’t have to seek out a specialist.
According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, all primary care physicians must complete an allergy and immunology curriculum during his or her term of residency. A primary care physician can provide allergy skin testing and spirometry during which the patient blows into a device that measures breathing capacity. A primary care physician can also discuss preventive strategies and has the ability to recognize and diagnose the conditions:
- Asthma
- Urticaria (hives)
- Immunodeficiency
- Hypersensitivity reactions
- Rhinitis (stuffy nose)
- Anaphylaxis (whole body allergic reaction)
“Allergies are extremely common and it is vital that a patient talks to his or her primary care physician to discuss the best ways to manage the symptoms,” explains Dr. Zahrain St. Jean, a family medicine physician at MetroSouth Health Center at Blue Island. “Untreated allergies can also lead to other chronic conditions.”
During an examination, a primary care physician can help an allergic patient treat or maintain his or her allergies by:
- Providing medication
- Counseling patients/families on techniques to avoid environmental triggers
- Family history
- Provide new ideas for patient’s general lifestyle, etc.
However, if a primary care physician believes his or her allergic patient needs further care, he or she will help recommend a specialist that is right for the patient.
If you would like to make an appointment with Dr. St. Jean, please call her office at 708-489-7800.
If you schedule your physical before December 31, 2011, adults will receive a free AMC movie ticket and children under 18 will receive an insulated lunch backpack.
