Orlando is one of the most visited cities in the nation. Residents and tourists have two large healthcare systems to choose from for their care: Orlando Health and AdventHealth. Orlando Health is a 3,238-bed healthcare system that includes 23 hospitals. Orlando Health locations include an adult level-one trauma center as well as several rehab and cancer centers. The VA Medical Center in Orlando, one of 7 facilities caring for veterans in the area, includes 370 inpatient beds and has a large outpatient clinic.
Ranking #1 in Orlando for the last 11 years is AdventHealth Orlando, a 2,904-bed medical center. Leapfrog Hospital Safety Guide gave AdventHealth Orlando a Grade A for hospital safety. U.S. News ranks it nationally in six adult specialties, including:
Orlando Regional Medical Center offers some of the area’s best pediatric care. U.S. News ranks it nationally in 5 children’s specialties, including:
An allergist, also known as an immunologist, is a specialist who treats health issues that result from problems with the immune system. They diagnose, treat, and help prevent immune system conditions and disorders. Problems with your immune system can happen when some of your body’s defenses don’t work as they’re supposed to, which can lead to an increased risk of autoimmune diseases, inflammation, and infection.
What conditions do allergists treat?
Allergists treat various conditions that affect several areas of your body, including the respiratory system, eyes, stomach, and skin. When your immune system has an aggressive response to allergens you ingest, inhale, or touch, it can lead to symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, and itchy or watery eyes. More severe reactions can lead to inflammation, hives, asthma, and even death. Some of these conditions include:
What procedures do allergists perform?
Some of the most common procedures allergists perform are diagnostic tests. An allergist can identify the substance responsible for triggering an exaggerated response in your immune system by introducing small amounts of potential allergens to you. Your allergist may even conduct a blood test, which detects and measures the presence of allergens in your blood.
When should I go to an allergist?
Your immune system safeguards your body against harmful viruses, bacteria, and other irritants and attackers. Problems with your immune system can be serious and life threatening.
Your immune system might not be functioning as it should if you’re often sick, suffering from asthma, or experiencing bad allergic reactions. Watch your symptoms closely, and if they persist or grow more severe, you should consider a visit to an allergist.
What can I expect from my first allergist appointment?
For your first allergist visit, your doctor will often start by gathering information about your medical and family history. They’ll likely ask about your symptoms and their severity. Your allergist may also ask about any medications you take to manage your condition.
If the cause of a reaction is unknown, your allergist may conduct tests to measure your body’s response to different allergens.
What questions should I ask my allergist?
It’s important you go to your allergist appointment prepared. To help you get started, we’ve created a list of good questions for you to ask:
Use these questions as a starting point during your allergist appointment. It’s also good practice to take notes and ask for additional resources and information.