New Patients
Welcome to Mehta Allergy - Your journey to better health starts here
What to Expect
Initial Consultation
Your first visit will include a comprehensive review of your medical history, symptoms, and any previous allergy testing or treatments.
Physical Examination
Dr. Mehta will perform a thorough physical examination, focusing on areas commonly affected by allergies.
Testing Recommendations
Based on your symptoms and history, we may recommend skin testing, blood tests, or other diagnostic procedures.
Treatment Plan
You'll receive a personalized treatment plan that may include medications, lifestyle modifications, or immunotherapy.
Frequently Asked Questions
🌿 General Allergy Questions
What's the difference between an allergy and an intolerance?
An allergy is when your immune system overreacts to something harmless. An intolerance usually means your body has trouble digesting a food, like lactose in milk. Allergic reactions can be serious; intolerances are usually uncomfortable, but not dangerous.
Can allergies develop later in life?
Yes! People can get allergies as adults even if they never had them as kids.
Are allergies hereditary?
They can run in families, but just because your parents have allergies doesn't mean you definitely will.
Can allergies be cured?
Not usually. But they can be managed very well with medications, lifestyle changes, or treatments like allergy shots.
When should I see an allergist?
If you have frequent sneezing, rashes, breathing issues, or reactions to food or medicine, it's a good idea to see a specialist.
🧪 Testing & Diagnosis
Skin vs. blood testing – what's the difference?
Skin tests: fast results, show how your skin reacts
Blood tests: measure allergy antibodies in your blood
Should I stop medications before testing?
Some meds (like antihistamines) need to be stopped. Your doctor will tell you what to stop and when.
Is allergy testing painful?
Not really. Skin tests feel like tiny pricks or scratches.
Can I get tested for multiple allergies at once?
Yes! We can test for dozens of allergens in one visit.
Are allergy tests accurate?
They're very helpful, especially when combined with your symptom history. But no test is perfect.
❗ Why Food Allergy Panels Aren't Always Helpful
Food allergy blood panels may seem like a quick way to find out what foods you're allergic to—but they can often be misleading.
Here's why:
- They can show "false positives": These tests measure if your body has made antibodies (IgE) to certain foods. But having antibodies doesn't always mean you're allergic—you might eat that food all the time with no problem!
- They don't match your symptoms: People often get a long list of "positive" results for foods they've never had issues with. This can lead to unnecessary food restrictions, which can affect nutrition, growth, and quality of life.
- They don't tell us how severe a reaction might be: Even if the test is positive, it can't tell us if or how badly you'll react. Some people test high but have no symptoms at all.
- They're not meant to be used without a medical history: Food allergy testing works best when used together with your story—what you ate, when symptoms happened, and what kind of reaction you had.
The Bottom Line: Food allergy panels can cause confusion and stress if they're not interpreted carefully. If you think you or your child has a food allergy, the best first step is to talk with an allergist who can help decide if testing is needed—and which kind.
🌾 Environmental Allergies
Is it allergies or a cold?
Allergies cause itchy eyes, sneezing, and clear mucus. Colds often come with fever, sore throat, and body aches and usually go away in a week.
Can I open windows during allergy season?
If you have outdoor allergies, it's better to keep them closed to keep pollen out, especially on high pollen days.
How do I reduce allergens at home?
Use HEPA filters, wash bedding weekly, reduce humidity, and vacuum with a filter-equipped vacuum.
Do air purifiers help?
Yes! They reduce allergens like dust, pet dander, and pollen, especially if they have HEPA filters.
When is the best time to be outside during allergy season?
Late afternoon or after rain is best. Avoid mornings when pollen is highest.
🥜 Food Allergies
Can food allergies go away?
Some do, especially in kids (like milk or egg allergies). Others (like peanut or shellfish) often last a lifetime.
What's the difference between food allergy and food sensitivity?
Allergies can cause serious symptoms like swelling or trouble breathing. Sensitivities may cause bloating or headaches but are less dangerous.
Do I need an epinephrine auto-injector?
If you've had serious allergic reactions, your doctor will likely recommend carrying one (like an EpiPen).
🧮 Asthma & Respiratory Allergies
What's allergic asthma?
It's asthma that's triggered by allergens like pollen, dust, or pets. Other non-allergic types of asthma may be triggered by cold air or exercise.
Can allergies make asthma worse?
Yes. Treating allergies can help improve asthma control.
What triggers should I avoid?
- Pollen
- Dust mites
- Mold
- Pet dander
- Smoke
- Strong odors
💊 Medications and Treatments
What's the difference between antihistamines and decongestants?
Antihistamines: help with itching, sneezing, runny nose
Decongestants: help with stuffiness but shouldn't be used for long periods, and are not recommended to be used in children
How long do allergy shots take to work?
You may notice improvement in a few months. Full benefit takes 6–12 months. Treatment usually lasts 3–5 years.
Are allergy medications safe long-term?
Most are safe if used correctly. Follow your doctor's instructions, especially for nasal sprays.
Can I take allergy meds while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Some are safe, but check with your doctor first.
What are biologics?
Biologics are special injections for severe asthma or eczema that don't get better with regular treatment. They target the part of the immune system causing inflammation.
Talk to your allergist about any symptoms or questions you have. Managing allergies is possible with the right tools and support!