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An allergist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of allergies and asthma. They are also known as an allergist-immunologist. Allergies are a hypersensitivity of the immune system to substances that are typically harmless to most people, such as pollen, dust mites, certain foods, or insect stings. These reactions can manifest in various ways, including skin rashes, respiratory problems like sneezing and wheezing, digestive issues, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis.

The training to become an allergist involves completing medical school followed by a residency in internal medicine or pediatrics. After the residency, they undertake a fellowship in allergy and immunology, which typically lasts for two years. During this fellowship, they gain in-depth knowledge and practical experience in managing allergic diseases and immune system disorders.

Allergists use a variety of diagnostic tools to identify allergens. These commonly include skin prick tests, where small amounts of suspected allergens are applied to the skin, and blood tests, such as IgE antibody tests, to detect specific allergic antibodies. Based on the diagnosis, an allergist can develop a personalized treatment plan. This may involve allergen avoidance strategies, medications like antihistamines and corticosteroids, or immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots or sublingual immunotherapy (allergy drops under the tongue), which gradually desensitizes the patient to specific allergens. They also manage related conditions such as eczema, sinusitis, and food intolerances.