Allergy / Immunology

Are your allergy symptoms under control? If not, your sniffling, sneezing and itchy, watery eyes can ruin your life. The allergy and immunology specialist at Consolidated Medical Practices of Memphis (CMPM) can help you get your life back.

We begin with a review of your medical history and physical exam. If recommended, we offer in-office skin prick and patch testing for allergies, spirometry testing for lung function, blood testing for allergies, and physician-supervised food challenges.

Allergy Signs & Symptoms

The signs and symptoms you display during an allergic reaction will depend on the type of allergy you have and your body’s sensitivity to an allergen. The following symptoms may indicate an allergic reaction:

 

If you are experiencing a severe allergic reaction—called anaphylaxis—this is considered a medical emergency and you should seek immediate medical attention.

Conditions We Treat

There are a variety of potential allergens (substances to which we react). Food and environmental allergens are the most common. Your CMPM allergist can diagnose and treat a variety of allergy-related conditions including the following:

Allergy Treatments

The main treatment for allergies:

• Prescription and OTC medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, leukotriene blockers, and nasal sprays
• Environmental controls
• Immunotherapy (allergy shots, or tablets)
• Injectable biologics for more severe diseases such as Dupixent, Fasenra, Nucala, or Xolair.

Immunotherapy: A Long-Term Solution

Immunotherapy is a game-changer when it comes to allergies. It is as close to an allergy cure as is available, offering the chance to induce long-term remission. This approach involves gradually reducing sensitization to a variety of allergens through repeated, controlled exposure.

Immunotherapy is typically done in the form of allergy shots, in which allergen is administered in slowly increasing amounts until your body becomes less sensitive to an allergen. Immunotherapy may also be delivered as sublingual allergy tablets (available by prescription when a person is sensitive only to grass, ragweed, or dust mites), which are placed under the tongue and absorbed directly into the bloodstream.

Immunotherapy is ideal for addressing environmental (not food) allergens that cannot be avoided, such as pollen, dust, mold, and pet dander, or when medications have not provided enough relief. It should be performed under the supervision of a physician or advanced practice provider.