Allergy

Many people have some form of allergy to a greater or lesser extent. There can be many reasons why one develops an allergy. If you have developed symptoms of allergy, you should be seen by a consultant in allergy.

Our consultants are ready to help you, so you can quickly receive the correct diagnosis, whether you are paying yourself, have health insurance or are referred through the public waiting time guarantee

What is allergy?

Allergy is hypersensitivity to a substance that other people can tolerate. Most commonly we see allergy to pollen, house dust mites, dander/hair from pets, mould and foods. These are not substances our body should normally react to, but the body’s immune system begins to fight against them and an allergic reaction occurs when one is exposed to the substance we cannot tolerate.

What types of allergy exist?

There are many different types of allergy, with the most common allergy types being:

• Contact allergies
• Food allergy
• Respiratory allergy

The four largest allergens in the air are house dust mites, pollen, pet dander and moulds in nature. Some people develop urticaria (contact allergy) upon contact with e.g. fish.

What are the symptoms of allergy?

The hypersensitivity reaction occurs each time one is exposed to the allergen. The reaction depends on the type of allergy and it will vary how severely one reacts to the allergen. The symptoms can be e.g. asthma, hay fever, urticaria or rash. Read more about symptoms of allergy here.

How is one tested for allergy?

At CPH Privathospital we only investigate contact allergy and respiratory allergy and not food allergy. The investigation consists of one or more examinations such as prick test, skin tests and blood tests. If you have symptoms from the lungs, we will also perform various lung examinations.

How is allergy treated?

First and foremost, you should avoid what you cannot tolerate to the greatest extent possible. Medical treatment will relieve the symptoms. The consultant will carefully inform you about the treatment options.