06/24/2024
Dermatologist or Allergist ?
Potential allergens are everywhere. And your skin, as the largest organ in your body, is the point of contact for many of those allergens. Allergies can lead to hives, rashes, eczema, swelling, and other visible skin conditions. When they arise, do you know which specialist to call for? By learning the distinctions and differences between a dermatologist and an allergist, you can make sure you receive the right care.
What a Dermatologist Does
A dermatologist is a specialist in the treatment and management of the skin. In addition to treating skin, dermatologists also treat hair and nails. As specialists, dermatologists not only complete pre-med programs and four years of medical school, but they must also successfully complete a one-year internship and three years of residency. You will look to a dermatologist to treat acne, melanoma, and psoriasis, among numerous other conditions. Dermatologists are often carrying out cosmetic procedures such as facelifts, Botox injections, and lip fillers as well.
What an Allergist Does
An allergist, or immunologist, is a physician who specializes in identifying and treating allergic reactions, as well as other immunological responses. Allergists are also medical specialists who, in addition to medical school and residency, must complete a two-year fellowship under a licensed allergist for a total of nine years of postgraduate education. Allergists are responsible for treating allergic and immunological responses throughout the body, including the skin but also for example the lungs and sinuses. Your allergist will also help you find the best course of treatment for common environmental allergies, such as hay fever. Perhaps the best-known treatment an allergist provides is an allergy test, in which they inject small amounts of numerous allergen extracts into the skin to determine which allergens cause reactions. Allergists are also trained to desensitize patients to allergens through a course of injections that introduce low-concentration solutions of an allergen into the body—a process that’s similar to vaccination.
How They Differ
Dermatologists and allergists overlap in their treatment of the skin. However, not all skin conditions are allergic reactions, and not all allergic reactions concern the skin. Allergists do not commonly concentrate on issues with hair and nails, as these traditionally fall within the purview of dermatologists. Dermatologists may be able to treat skin conditions that result from allergic reactions, but they may have to refer patients to allergists in order to identify and begin treating the underlying cause of the condition. Allergists also often treat the respiratory system, which dermatologists do not.
Though spring is often referred to as “allergy season” because of high amounts of airborne pollen, allergic reactions and asthma can strike year-round.
Dr Michael Wein is board-certified, trained at Johns Hopkins, and leads a dedicated team who can address and identify the underlying cause of allergic reactions that keep you from living your best life.
