Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Care
Lakeland Regional Health’s board-certified allergy and immunology specialists diagnose and treat allergies, asthma, eczema, and immune system disorders in patients of all ages. If you’re dealing with seasonal allergies, frequent infections, or breathing symptoms, we’ll help identify what’s causing your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan.
What is an Allergist/
Immunologist?
An allergist/immunologist is a physician who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of allergies, asthma, and conditions that affect the immune system. They can help identify what’s causing your symptoms and recommend testing and treatment options based on your needs.
Why Choose LRH?
Our board-certified allergy and immunology specialists provide comprehensive care for both children and adults, bringing expertise in allergy and immunology together with experience in both pediatric and adult medicine. This broad expertise helps us provide specialized care for a wide range of allergic and immune system conditions.
What We Treat
Allergies
Allergic reactions happen when your immune system overreacts to a substance that’s normally harmless. Our specialists diagnose and treat many types of allergies and allergic reactions.
Food Allergies
Food allergies occur when the immune system reacts to certain proteins in foods, most often after the food is eaten.
Indoor Allergies
Indoor allergies can be triggered by allergens such as dust mites, mold, and pet dander found in the home, school, workplace, or other indoor places.
Seasonal Allergies
Seasonal allergies are reactions to outdoor allergens such as pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds that are common at certain times of the year.
Medication Allergies
Medication allergies occur when the immune system reacts to certain prescription or over-the-counter medications.
Insect Sting Allergies
Stings from insects such as bees, wasps, hornets, and fire ants can cause allergic reactions in some people.
Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention.
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, dial 911.
Asthma and Breathing Conditions
We evaluate asthma and breathing problems that may be related to allergies and develop a plan to control your symptoms.
- Asthma – Asthma is a chronic condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, making it harder to breathe.
- Allergic lung conditions – Allergic reactions can affect the lungs and airways, causing inflammation and breathing problems.
Skin Conditions
Some skin conditions are related to allergies or immune system reactions. We evaluate these conditions to help identify triggers and develop a treatment plan to help manage symptoms.
- Eczema (atopic dermatitis) – Eczema is a chronic condition that causes dry, itchy, inflamed skin.
- Contact dermatitis – Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin reacts to an allergen or irritant.
- Chronic hives (urticaria) – Chronic hives are raised, itchy welts that repeatedly appear on the skin for six weeks or more.
- Swelling beneath the skin (angioedema) – Angioedema causes swelling in the deeper layers of the skin, often around the face, lips, hands, and feet.
Immune System Disorders
Frequent or recurring infections can be a sign that the immune system isn’t working as it should. Our specialists help identify possible immune system problems and recommend appropriate treatment.
- Primary immunodeficiency disorders – These conditions occur when part of the immune system is missing or does not function properly.
- Frequent or recurring infections – Infections that happen often, are difficult to treat, or keep coming back may be a sign of an immune system disorder.
Common Symptoms We Evaluate
Allergy, asthma, and immune system conditions can cause a wide range of symptoms.
- Sneezing, congestion, or runny nose
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Sore throat
- Hives or unexplained skin rashes
- Eczema flare-ups
- Wheezing or shortness of breath
- Reactions to foods or medications
- Insect sting reactions
- Frequent infections
When to See a Specialist
Consider scheduling an appointment with an allergist/immunologist if your symptoms last more than a few weeks, keep coming back, interfere with daily activities, or aren’t improving with your current treatment.
Testing & Treatment Options
Allergy Skin Testing
Allergy skin testing can help identify allergies to environmental allergens, foods, medications, and stings. Results can help your provider develop a personalized treatment plan.
Food Allergy Evaluation
We assess your symptoms, medical history, and testing results to determine if a food allergy is present and discuss treatment options.
Allergy Shots (Immunotherapy)
Allergy shots are a long-term treatment that can help reduce your sensitivity to certain allergens and provide lasting symptom relief. Treatment typically begins with shots once or twice a week, followed by less frequent maintenance doses for three to five years.
Oral Immunotherapy (OIT)
OIT is available to select patients with food allergies. Under close medical supervision, small amounts of the food allergen are introduced by mouth to gradually increase tolerance over time.
Food and Medication Challenges
When appropriate, supervised food and medication challenges can help determine if an allergy is still present.
Asthma Evaluation and Management
We develop personalized treatment plans to help improve breathing, control symptoms, and reduce flare-ups.
Immune System Evaluation and Management
We evaluate patients with recurring infections for possible immune system disorders and may recommend gammaglobulin replacement therapy (IVIG or SCIG) when appropriate.
FAQs
Please bring a photo ID, insurance card, a current list of medications, and any previous allergy testing or medical records.
Referral requirements depend on your insurance provider. Please call your insurance provider or our office for more information.
Yes, our team cares for patients of all ages.
Your provider will discuss your symptoms, medical history, and concerns before recommending appropriate testing. Depending on your condition, testing may include skin testing, blood tests, or other evaluations to help identify the cause of your symptoms.
Most patients receive allergy shots once or twice a week during the build-up phase. Once the maintenance dose is reached, appointments are usually scheduled every two to four weeks.
Most patients receive allergy shots for three to five years. We will monitor your progress and determine when treatment is complete based on how your allergies are controlled.
Under medical supervision, a small amount of the food allergen is gradually introduced by mouth over time to help reduce sensitivity.
Yes, we evaluate and treat certain immune system disorders, including providing gammaglobulin replacement therapy (IVIG or SCIG) when appropriate.
Do not stop taking any prescription medication unless you have been instructed to do so by our office. If allergy testing is planned, we will let you know which medications to stop and when to stop taking them before your appointment.
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Find Answers. Find Relief.
Whether you’re experiencing allergies, asthma, or frequent infections, our team is here to help. Schedule an appointment. Call 863.213.1010.
Grasslands Campus
- 3030 Harden Blvd, Lakeland, FL 33803