Top 25 Allergists Across the US
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What is an Allergist?
Learn about this specialty, training requirements, and when to schedule a visit.
An allergist (also called an allergist/immunologist) is a physician specially trained to diagnose, treat, and manage allergies, asthma, and immunologic disorders. These medical specialists have expertise in identifying allergens that trigger immune system responses and developing personalized treatment plans to help patients live healthier, more comfortable lives.
Training and Qualifications
Becoming an allergist requires extensive education and training:
- 4 years of medical school to earn an MD or DO degree
- 3-4 years of residency training in Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, or combined Med-Peds
- 2-3 years of specialized fellowship in Allergy and Immunology (minimum 24 consecutive months in an ACGME-accredited program)
- Total of 9+ years of training beyond a bachelor's degree
Board Certification: American Board of Allergy and Immunology (ABAI) - a conjoint board of the American Board of Internal Medicine and the American Board of Pediatrics. Certification must be achieved within 7 years of fellowship completion and requires a valid, unrestricted medical license.
When Should You See an Allergist?
You should consider seeing an allergist if:
- Your allergy or asthma symptoms last more than a few weeks and interfere with sleep, work, or daily activities
- Over-the-counter medications aren't providing adequate relief
- You experience severe allergic reactions including hives, face or tongue swelling, or difficulty breathing
- You have chronic sinus infections, nasal congestion, or breathing difficulties
- You suffer from hay fever or allergy symptoms for several months out of the year
- You need to identify specific allergens through professional testing
- You're considering immunotherapy (allergy shots or sublingual tablets)
- Your current allergy or asthma treatments aren't well controlled
Key Facts
Common Conditions Treated
Allergists are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. Here are some of the most common conditions that allergists help patients manage.
Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever)
Seasonal or year-round nasal allergies caused by pollens, dust mites, pet dander, or mold. This is one of the most common conditions treated by allergists.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Allergists can identify specific allergens through skin or blood testing, prescribe targeted medications, recommend environmental controls, and offer immunotherapy to build tolerance to allergens over time.
Asthma
A chronic respiratory condition that causes airways to narrow and produce excess mucus, making breathing difficult. Asthma is often triggered by allergens.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Allergists perform pulmonary function tests to diagnose asthma, identify triggers, prescribe controller and rescue medications, develop asthma action plans, and provide ongoing monitoring to prevent attacks.
Food Allergies
Immune system reactions to specific foods that can range from mild discomfort to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Common allergens include peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, wheat, soy, fish, and shellfish.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Allergists conduct food allergy testing, help distinguish true allergies from intolerances, prescribe epinephrine auto-injectors when needed, provide guidance on avoiding allergens, and may offer oral immunotherapy in select cases.
Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)
A chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. Often associated with other allergic conditions like asthma and hay fever.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Allergists identify potential allergens or irritants triggering flare-ups, prescribe appropriate topical and systemic medications, recommend skincare routines, and provide comprehensive management to reduce symptoms and prevent complications.
Urticaria and Angioedema (Hives and Swelling)
Raised, itchy welts on the skin (hives) and deeper swelling of tissues (angioedema), which can be acute or chronic. May be triggered by allergens, medications, or other factors.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Allergists investigate underlying causes through detailed history and testing, prescribe antihistamines and other medications, identify and help avoid triggers, and manage chronic cases that don't respond to standard treatments.
Sinusitis (Sinus Infections)
Inflammation and swelling of the sinuses, often related to allergies. Can be acute or chronic, causing facial pain and congestion.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Allergists determine if allergies are contributing to recurrent sinus infections, prescribe appropriate medications, recommend nasal irrigation and other treatments, and address underlying allergic triggers to prevent recurrence.
Insect Sting Allergies
Allergic reactions to stings from bees, wasps, hornets, yellow jackets, or fire ants. Can range from large local reactions to life-threatening anaphylaxis.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Allergists perform testing to confirm insect venom allergy, prescribe epinephrine auto-injectors for emergency use, and offer venom immunotherapy which can be 90-98% effective at preventing future severe reactions.
Drug and Vaccine Allergies
Adverse immune reactions to medications or vaccine components. Important to distinguish true allergies from side effects.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Allergists evaluate medication reaction history, perform drug allergy testing when appropriate, help identify safe alternatives, and in some cases, perform drug desensitization procedures to allow use of necessary medications.
Important Note
This list represents common conditions but is not exhaustive. Allergists treat many other conditions related to their specialty. If you're experiencing symptoms or have concerns, consult with a qualified allergist for a proper evaluation.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Understanding what happens during your appointment can help you feel more prepared. Here's what you can typically expect when visiting an allergist.
Your First Visit
- Detailed medical history including childhood allergies, family history, and current symptoms
- Discussion of when symptoms started, what triggers make them worse, and previous treatments tried
- Review of medications, lifestyle factors, and environmental exposures
- Physical examination focused on areas affected by allergies (skin, nose, throat, lungs)
- Allergy testing may be performed (skin prick tests or blood tests) to identify specific triggers
- First visit typically lasts 60-90 minutes
Diagnosis & Testing
- Skin prick testing: Small amounts of allergens applied to skin to check for reactions
- Intradermal testing: Small amounts of allergen injected just under the skin for more sensitive testing
- Blood tests (specific IgE tests): Measure antibodies to specific allergens in blood
- Pulmonary function tests: Measure lung capacity and airflow to diagnose asthma
- Patch testing: Identifies allergens causing contact dermatitis
- Food challenges: Supervised ingestion of suspected food allergens (when appropriate)
Treatment Options
- Allergen avoidance strategies and environmental controls
- Prescription medications: antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, bronchodilators, biologics
- Immunotherapy (allergy shots or sublingual tablets) to build tolerance to allergens
- Asthma action plans with controller and rescue medications
- Epinephrine auto-injectors for patients at risk of anaphylaxis
- Patient education on trigger management and emergency response
- Regular follow-up visits to monitor progress and adjust treatment
Tip for Your Visit
Bring a list of current medications, previous test results, and questions you want to ask. Writing down your symptoms—when they occur and what affects them—helps your allergist provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
How to Choose the Right Allergist
Finding the right healthcare provider is important for your health and peace of mind. Here are key factors to consider when selecting an allergist.
Credentials to Verify
- Board certified by the American Board of Allergy and Immunology (ABAI)
- Completed accredited fellowship training in Allergy and Immunology
- Active, unrestricted medical license in your state
- Member of professional organizations like AAAAI (American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology) or ACAAI (American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology)
- Experience treating your specific condition (pediatric vs adult, specific allergies)
Important Considerations
- Location and accessibility of office
- Accepts your insurance plan
- Availability of appointments that fit your schedule
- Hospital affiliations in case of emergencies
- Positive patient reviews and recommendations
- Communication style that makes you comfortable
- On-site services like allergy testing, pulmonary function tests, and immunotherapy
- After-hours availability or emergency protocols
- Experience with advanced treatments (biologics, immunotherapy, etc.)
Quick Tip
Don't hesitate to schedule consultations with multiple allergists before making your decision. The right fit isn't just about credentials—it's also about feeling comfortable and confident in your care.
Cost and Insurance Information
Understanding the costs associated with seeing an allergist can help you plan for your healthcare needs.
Average Costs (Without Insurance)
Initial Visit
$150-$300
Follow-up Visit
$75-$200
Common Procedures
Note: These are estimated average costs and can vary based on location, provider, and specific services required.
Insurance Coverage
- Most health insurance plans cover allergist visits with a specialist copay
- Allergy testing is typically covered when medically necessary
- Immunotherapy (allergy shots) is usually covered but may require prior authorization
- Some plans require referral from primary care physician
- Check with your insurance for specific coverage details, copays, and deductibles
- Out-of-network allergists may have different coverage levels
- High-deductible plans may require meeting deductible before coverage begins
Medicare Information
Medicare Part B covers medically necessary allergist visits, diagnostic tests, and immunotherapy. Medicare Advantage plans may have different coverage and cost-sharing.
Money-Saving Tips
- 1Always verify your allergist is in-network before scheduling
- 2Ask about self-pay discounts if you don't have insurance
- 3Inquire about payment plans for expensive procedures
- 4Get prior authorization when required to avoid claim denials
- 5Use FSA or HSA funds for eligible medical expenses
Questions to Ask Your Allergist
Being prepared for your appointment helps you get the most out of your time with your doctor. Here are important questions to consider asking an allergist.
What types of allergy testing do you recommend for my symptoms?
Am I a good candidate for immunotherapy (allergy shots or sublingual tablets)?
Can you help me create an emergency action plan for severe allergic reactions?
How should I properly use an epinephrine auto-injector, and when should I use it?
What are the most effective strategies for avoiding my specific allergy triggers?
Are there newer biologic medications that might help if standard treatments aren't working?
How can I tell the difference between a cold, allergies, and a sinus infection?
What should I do if I accidentally get exposed to something I'm allergic to?
How long will I need to continue treatment, and can my allergies improve over time?
Are there any foods, activities, or environmental factors I should avoid?
Pro Tip
Write down your questions before your appointment and bring them with you. Don't hesitate to take notes during your visit or ask for written instructions.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Know when symptoms require immediate attention versus a scheduled appointment.
While most conditions can wait for a scheduled appointment with an allergist, certain symptoms require immediate emergency care. Go to the emergency room or call 911 if you experience:
- Signs of anaphylaxis including throat swelling, difficulty breathing, rapid pulse, or dizziness
- Severe asthma attack not responding to rescue inhaler after 15-20 minutes
- Severe allergic reaction after an insect sting with spreading hives or breathing difficulty
- Severe food allergy reaction with symptoms progressing beyond mild hives
- Swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat that impairs breathing or swallowing
- Sudden drop in blood pressure accompanied by dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting
- Combination of hives, vomiting, and breathing problems occurring together
- Loss of consciousness or confusion following exposure to a known or suspected allergen
EMERGENCY
Call 911 or nearest ER
URGENT
Doctor or urgent care
NON-URGENT
Regular appointment
Allergist vs. Other Specialists
Understanding the differences between medical specialists helps you choose the right provider for your needs.
Allergist vs. Dermatologist
Allergists treat systemic allergic conditions and can identify specific allergen triggers through testing. Dermatologists focus on skin diseases. For eczema or hives, an allergist determines if allergies are the cause, while a dermatologist treats the skin condition itself.
Allergist vs. Pulmonologist
Allergists specialize in allergic asthma and respiratory allergies, focusing on identifying allergen triggers. Pulmonologists treat all lung diseases including COPD and pulmonary fibrosis. For asthma, allergists are ideal when allergies trigger symptoms.
Allergist vs. ENT Specialist (Otolaryngologist)
Allergists treat the underlying allergic causes of nasal and sinus symptoms through medication and immunotherapy. ENTs address structural issues like deviated septum or nasal polyps requiring surgery.
Allergist vs. Primary Care Physician
Primary care physicians can treat mild allergies with basic medications. Allergists provide specialized expertise for moderate to severe allergies, comprehensive allergy testing, and advanced treatments like immunotherapy.
Not sure which specialist you need?
Your primary care physician can help determine the right specialist for your condition and provide a referral if needed.
Sources & References
Information about allergists is sourced from peer-reviewed medical literature and authoritative organizations.
Last updated: March 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about allergists
What is the difference between an allergist and an immunologist?
Allergist and immunologist refer to the same specialty. The full title is 'allergist/immunologist' because these doctors are trained in both allergic diseases and the immune system. Some may focus more on allergy treatment while others may also treat immunodeficiency disorders, but they have the same core training and board certification from the American Board of Allergy and Immunology.
Do I need a referral to see an allergist?
It depends on your insurance plan. Some insurance plans, particularly HMOs, require a referral from your primary care physician to see a specialist like an allergist. PPO plans often allow you to see specialists without a referral. Check with your insurance provider to understand your plan's requirements. Even if not required, getting a referral can be helpful as your primary care doctor can share relevant medical records.
How long does allergy testing take?
Skin prick testing typically takes 30-45 minutes including the waiting time to observe reactions. Results are usually available immediately. Blood tests require a blood draw (5-10 minutes) and results come back in several days to a week. Your first visit with testing usually lasts 60-90 minutes total, including the medical history discussion and examination.
Is allergy testing painful?
Skin prick testing involves minimal discomfort. Small amounts of allergens are applied to the skin (usually on the forearm or back) with tiny pricks that feel like a light scratch. Most people describe it as mildly itchy rather than painful. The test may cause temporary small bumps similar to mosquito bites that disappear within a few hours. Blood testing involves a standard blood draw.
How effective are allergy shots?
Immunotherapy (allergy shots) is highly effective for many people. Studies show that allergy shots can reduce symptoms by 60-90% and may provide lasting relief even after treatment ends. They're particularly effective for environmental allergies (pollen, dust mites, pet dander) and insect sting allergies (90-98% effective). The treatment requires commitment—typically weekly shots for 3-6 months, then monthly maintenance shots for 3-5 years—but many patients experience significant long-term improvement.
Can allergies develop later in life?
Yes, you can develop new allergies at any age, even if you've never had allergies before. Environmental changes, hormonal shifts, stress, moving to a new location with different allergens, or changes in your immune system can all trigger new allergic reactions. Adult-onset allergies are common, and an allergist can help diagnose and treat these new sensitivities regardless of when they appear.
What's the difference between seasonal and year-round allergies?
Seasonal allergies (allergic rhinitis) occur during specific times of year when outdoor allergens like tree, grass, or weed pollens are high. Symptoms typically worsen in spring, summer, or fall depending on the allergen. Year-round (perennial) allergies are caused by indoor allergens like dust mites, pet dander, mold, or cockroaches that are present throughout the year. Many people have both types. An allergist can test to identify your specific triggers and recommend appropriate treatment for each.
Can an allergist help with food intolerances?
Allergists primarily diagnose and treat true food allergies, which involve the immune system and can be life-threatening. Food intolerances (like lactose intolerance) are digestive issues that don't involve the immune system and typically aren't life-threatening. However, an allergist can help distinguish between the two through testing and evaluation. If you have a food intolerance rather than an allergy, your allergist may refer you to a gastroenterologist or dietitian for management.
Should children see a pediatric allergist or can they see a general allergist?
Both options can work well. Some allergists specialize in pediatric allergy care, while others treat both children and adults. Allergists are trained during their fellowship to treat patients across all age groups. When choosing an allergist for your child, consider factors like the doctor's experience with pediatric patients, office environment (child-friendly), communication style with children, and parent reviews. Either a pediatric allergist or a general allergist with significant pediatric experience can provide excellent care.
How often will I need to see my allergist?
Visit frequency varies based on your condition and treatment. Initially, you may have 1-2 visits for diagnosis and treatment planning. If receiving immunotherapy (allergy shots), you'll visit weekly during the buildup phase (3-6 months), then monthly for maintenance (3-5 years). For medication management alone, follow-up visits may be every 3-6 months initially, then annually once stable. Patients with severe or poorly controlled asthma may need more frequent monitoring. Your allergist will recommend a schedule based on your specific needs.
Medical disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions about a medical condition. If you have a medical emergency, call 911. Our editorial standards