Need Allergy Testing

[Insearchof]

Can someone tell me what the difference is between an Allergist (MD) and an Environmental Physician? I would like to pursue taking my son in to have extensive allergy testing done. He has been diagnosed with TS, OCD, ADHD and CAPD several years ago. After reading Latitudes I think it might be worth while to have him tested for food and environmental allergies. I live in a small town and the only thing I found in the phone book was Allergy and Immunization Centers. Can they do the testing? Specifically, what tests should I ask for them to run?

[Chemar]

Hi

I just wanted to welcome you to Latitudes

 

Allergists specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of allergies ( food and environmental) whereas I think the enviro docs cover a much broader field....I dont have personal experience with Enviro Docs so hopefully someone who does can give you more details

[Guest]

Hi Insearchof and welcome,

 

Usually an Environmental Physician is a D.O. and takes a whole body approach to things. For example my Environmental Physician uses a different type of skin allergy testing than an allergist. Also my allergy vials are made without preservatives. I haven't been to an allergist so I don't know what their vials have in them, but I'm guessing it's very different. You may have to travel for a doctor since you live in a small town. The post at the top of the forum called "Finding Medical Help" is a great way to find one.

 

Many here have delayed food sensitivities tested first which is a blood test. Depending on the lab you use, most have doctor referral lists for doctors that use their tests. If you can't find a doctor, you can order lab tests yourself from Direct Labs at http://www.directlabs.com/ I always recommend having a doctor if at all possible, but I also know the cons of living in a small town especially for alternative treatments.

 

Check out this post about testing as it includes a couple different delayed food sensitivity tests along with many other helpful tests: http://www.latitudes.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=755&hl=

 

For myself I have all kinds of IgE food allergies that show up with skin testing, but hardly any delayed food sensitivities. For many here it's the opposite way around from myself.

 

Carolyn