Allergy & Immunology Specialists in MA & RI
Allergies are chronic, sometimes underdiagnosed conditions that require a full array of testing and treatment services to properly manage. An estimated 60 million Americans suffer from allergies on a daily basis. Appropriate allergy evaluation and individualized, focused therapy are the mission of Prima CARE's Allergy & Immunology Division.
Patients who need allergy and asthma care are seen by Dr. Joseph Zhou, who brings expertise in diagnosing and treating allergy patients of all ages. Using the most up-to-date evidence-based medicine, he offers specialty consultation, targeted testing, and customized treatment plans based on the specific needs of his patients. Dr. Zhou's office is located in Prima CARE's Building 1 at 277 Pleasant Street in Fall River.
FAQs on Allergy and Immunology
What Is An Allergy?
An allergy is simply an immune system response to one or more substances in the environment. Allergic reactions can also occur without clear triggers. However, the most common allergic reactions are triggered by pollen, animal dander, dust, mold, certain types of medication, and food.
What Are The Symptoms of an Allergic Reaction?
An allergic reaction can occur shortly after exposure to a particular substance. Symptoms may include the sudden onset of:
- Hives
- Swelling
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Watery, red or itchy eyes
Which Allergies Do You Test For and Treat?
- Food (including peanut allergy)
- Mold
- Environmental
- Bee sting and other insect bites
- Chemicals
- Drugs (including penicillin, local anesthetics, antibiotics and aspirin)
- Metals
What Types of Allergy Tests Do You Offer?
- Skin prick and intradermal skin testing
- Skin patch testing
- ImmunoCAP blood testing
- Oral food challenge (OFC)
What Is Immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy is a treatment for allergy symptoms that involves administering injections of allergens. Repeated exposure to an allergen helps build the body’s tolerance to it. By giving the injection in gradually increasing doses, you can significantly reduce your allergy symptoms.
What Allergy Treatments Do You Provide?
We provide three core immunology treatments:
- Conventional immunotherapy
- Cluster (also known as rapid) immunotherapy
- Sublingual Immunotherapy Allergy Treatment (SLIT or “allergy drops")
If you would like more information pertaining to allergy and asthma treatment and Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases (PIDD), watch a video(opens in a new tab) from the experts at American Association of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI).
