The Allergy Doctors offer up-to-date, evidence-based treatments and allergy testing in Wanaka, NZ . We consult with all ages, including infants and children, for the following allergic diseases:
While food allergies and intolerances can share symptoms e.g. stomach upsets, they have very different treatment pathways. In some cases, food allergies can cause anaphylaxis - a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction. Food intolerances do not cause anaphylaxis. A correct diagnosis is important to evaluate the risk of anaphylaxis and to avoid unnecessary dietary restrictions which may be detrimental to growth and wellbeing.
This is also known as Allergic Rhinitis. This is a condition where seasonally or all year round, adults and children experience multiple symptoms including a runny or blocked nose, sneezing, itchy eyes, itchy throat and snoring. For some, the severity of these symptoms can be debilitating, often having a significant impact on their quality of life.
Hay fever can be caused by outdoor allergens such as, grass, weed and tree pollens, as well as indoor allergens, including but not limited to dust mites, mould and pet dander.
The Allergy Doctors offer Hay Fever treatments, including immunotherapy. Immunotherapy has been shown to induce tolerance to allergens, which in some cases can lead to remission of symptoms for up to ten years. This is a clinically-proven approach, which isn’t commonly available outside of larger cities. We are delighted to be able to offer immunotherapy for our patients in Central Otago.
Oral Allergy Syndrome is a condition where you might experience itchy or tingly lips, tongue, mouth or throat after eating particular fruits, vegetables, nuts or other foods. The reaction occurs because some of the proteins in these foods are very similar to the proteins in some pollens. If you are already sensitised to a particular pollen, the immune system can react to the foods, as if you had inhaled the related pollen. Oral Allergy Syndrome can cause anaphylaxis but this is rare. Each case needs to be carefully discussed and we can help you identify triggers and manage these symptoms appropriately.
Eczema can also be known as Atopic Dermatitis. It is common in infants but can be a lifelong issue. The very itchy skin is due to multiple factors that lead to a skin barrier dysfunction. Eczema needs specific but generally simple treatments to help the skin improve its barrier and to decrease inflammation which in turn reduces or resolves the itchiness.
Hives are also known as Urticaria. These are itchy wheals that may come and go or may be there on a daily basis for months or years. This can be a very distressing condition, interfering with work, play, sleep and appearance. There are many possible causes, and we can work with you to manage this condition, we can also refer to an Immunology clinic as needed.
This is a swelling, under the skin, of one or more parts of the body, often the lips or eyelids are affected. It can happen with or without hives. It is important to see a doctor about this, to review your current medications and your history, as there are different causes, and one form in particular needs careful management.
Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. When the immune system encounters a specific trigger, it sets off a reaction, which can cause you to feel a variety of symptoms, most concerning are symptoms that affect your breathing or your blood pressure.
In order to counteract severe symptoms, adrenaline needs to be administered and the sufferer should always seek immediate, emergency care and treatment.
The Allergy Doctors can consult with you if you have had anaphylaxis like symptoms, prescribe adrenaline auto injectors for patients who may require them, with advice on how and when to use them, alongside allergic reaction action plans and follow-up care.
