Allergy and immunology: diagnosis and treatment of allergies
Allergy testing, immunotherapy and follow-up in Torre del Mar
What allergy and immunology treats
Allergy and immunology is the medical specialty responsible for diagnosing and treating allergic conditions: rhinitis, conjunctivitis, allergic asthma, hives, dermatitis and food reactions, among others. Allergies affect more and more people due to environmental, seasonal and genetic factors, and while many cases involve mild symptoms, others have a significant impact on daily life.
The Mediterranean climate and pollen present for much of the year make allergy symptoms a very common reason for a consultation in the area. The allergy clinic sees patients at our medical centres (Vélez-Málaga), both with medical insurance and privately.
Common reasons for a consultation
- Nasal congestion or persistent rhinitis.
- Itchy or watery eyes, or conjunctivitis.
- Hives or dermatitis.
- Chronic cough or breathing difficulty.
- Reactions after eating certain foods.
- Allergic asthma or worsening symptoms during pollen season.
Allergy testing: what to expect at the consultation
Diagnosis starts with a detailed medical history: which symptoms appear, at what time of year and after which possible triggers. From there, the allergist requests the tests suited to each case:
- Skin prick test: the initial benchmark test, quick and well tolerated.
- Intradermal tests: for specific cases that need greater sensitivity.
- Specific IgE blood test: detecting antibodies against specific allergens in the blood, in coordination with our lab testing service.
- Controlled challenge testing: carried out only in a clinical setting and under medical supervision.
- Food allergy studies: essential for intolerances and severe reactions.
Patient safety is looked after at all three stages: preparation beforehand, carrying out the test, and follow-up afterwards, for both diagnostic tests and treatments. Protocols are reviewed regularly to incorporate the immunological therapies and personalised treatments available at any given time.
Once a diagnosis is reached, treatment is tailored to age, type of allergy and how severe the symptoms are: immunotherapy (so-called allergy vaccines), medication with antihistamines, topical corticosteroids or bronchodilators, personalised plans to reduce exposure to the allergen, and regular reviews to adjust treatment as it progresses.
When to book an appointment with the allergist
It's worth booking a consultation when symptoms come back every season, rhinitis or itchy eyes don't improve with the usual measures, a food allergy is suspected, or asthma gets worse. If respiratory symptoms are the main issue, the assessment can be completed in Respiratory Medicine; if they're skin-related, in Dermatology.
Book an appointment with our allergist and put a name to your symptoms: an accurate diagnosis is the first step to keeping them under control.
Frequently asked questions
When should I see an allergist in Málaga?
When you have persistent symptoms such as sneezing, itching, congestion, a chronic cough, hives or suspected food allergy.
Are allergy tests safe?
Yes. All tests are carried out under medical supervision and with strict safety protocols.
How long do allergy tests take?
The prick test usually gives results in 15–20 minutes. Blood tests take longer, depending on the laboratory.
Is there a cure for allergies?
Some can be fully controlled through immunotherapy, while others require ongoing treatment and prevention.
Can I have allergy tests if I am on medication?
It depends on the medicine. The allergist will tell you whether you need to stop it before the test.
Can allergies appear in adults even if I have never had them before?
Yes. Allergies can develop at any age.
Areas within this specialty