Skin Conditions
Allergic Contact Dermatitis
Allergic contact dermatitis occurs when your skin comes in direct contact with an allergen. For instance, if you have a nickel allergy and your skin comes in contact with jewelry made with even a very small amount of nickel, you may develop red, bumpy, scaly, itchy or swollen skin at the point of contact.
Urticaria
Hives are raised, itchy, red bumps on the surface of the skin. Hives can be acute or chronic in nature.Acute Urticaria- The word “acute” refers to a short period of time. Acute hives can last less than a day, or up to six weeks. Acute hives can be a reaction triggered by coming in contact with an allergen such as a food, animal dander, insect bite, latex or pollen. Identifying and avoiding the trigger can help prevent this allergic reaction from reoccurring.Chronic Urticaria- Unlike acute hives, chronic hives stick around for a longer period of time. Most people suffering from chronic hives have symptoms lasting longer than one year. Unfortunately, most chronic hives are idiopathic, meaning that the exact cause cannot be identified, though there is a subset of chronic hives with identifiable triggers.
Angioedema
Angioedema is swelling in the deep layers of the skin. It is often seen together with urticaria (hives). Angioedema many times occurs in soft tissues such as the eyelids, mouth or genitals. Angioedema is called “acute” if the condition lasts only a short time such as minutes to hours. Acute angioedema is commonly caused by an allergic reaction to medications or foods. Chronic recurrent angioedema is when the condition returns over a long period of time. It typically does not have an identifiable cause.
Hereditary Angioedema (HAE)
Hereditary Angioedema (HAE) is a rare, genetic condition that includes typically painful episodes of swelling that most frequently occur in the hands, feet, face, and genitals. It may also cause swelling of the airways of the lungs and/or lining of the intestines which can be dangerous. Both HAE and allergic angioedema cause swelling however allergic angioedema is commonly associated with hives.
Skin Prick Testing
Testing for Environmental and Food Allergies can be performed relatively quickly and painlessly using a method called “scratch” testing. Essentially skin testing, aka allergy testing, involves applying a small amount of an “extract” containing different allergens with our plastic multi test applicators.
IF you are interested in scheduling an appointment for skin testing, PLEASE be advised that ALL medications that include antihistamines in them must be discontinued 7 days PRIOR to the appointment date. If they are not stopped in time, the test results will not be accurate. Please feel free to contact our office with any questions on the antihistamines.
Patient Testimonials
Staff is professional and always very friendly!
“ After allergy testing, Dr. Shimamoto explained the process and options of allergy injections and answered all my questions. I follow up with Heidi, who is also great! As of now, I’m still doing weekly injections and it’s been easy to get desired appointment day and times. I am happy that I chose San Tan Allergy!”
“Thank you for being Professional and Caring.”
Lisa Blaylock ★★★★★
“ Watch out for telemedicine appointments. Make sure you have pre-screened for them. Worked with Jackie over the phone. She is fantastic–super patient and professional. Had exam and skin tests ordered by Dr. Shimamoto. He’s happy and efficient. Great practice, just need to be patient with all the delays and possible miscommunications due to all the pandemic-imposed restrictions.”
E. M. ★★★★★
“ Everything was so nice. The reception in the front desk of the best. I didn’t have a appointment. And they look and got me one next day. Two girl in the other office were also so nice. My son goes there. I’m from El paso and I was very impressed. Thanks again.”
Rita Romo ★★★★★
IN THE NEWS
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