Allergy Tests and Treatments
In western Kentucky and southern Indiana, allergies may seem to be a way of life. But with so many treatments available today, maybe it's time for you to explore your options. Our allergy-related services include:
- Emergency treatment in our ER
- Basic treatment at Owensboro Health-affiliated clinics
- Technology to help your doctor diagnose and treat you
Not sure where to start? Call 1-855-417-8555 to speak with a nursing professional about your symptoms.
Basic Treatment Options
Specialty Options
In advanced cases, your physician might recommend the services of a specialist, including a/an
- Allergist/Immunologist – (allergy specialist)
- Pulmonologist – (lung and breathing specialist)
- Otolaryngologist – (ear, nose and throat specialist)
You can do your homework on these specialties by consulting our Physician Finder.
Emergencies
Call 911 if you have a medical emergency.
Allergy and asthma attacks are treated in the Emergency Department. We treat patients of all ages at any time of day.
A severe asthma attack requires a check-up by a doctor. You may also need a hospital stay, oxygen, breathing assistance, and medications given through a vein (IV). Our professional staff includes a highly trained respiratory team that is on call 24/7.
When to go to the ED
Go to the emergency department if you experience:
- Drowsiness or confusion
- Severe shortness of breath at rest
- A peak flow measurement is less than 50% of your personal best
- Severe chest pain
- Bluish color to the lips and face
- Extreme difficulty breathing
- Rapid pulse
- Severe anxiety due to shortness of breath
What to expect in the ED
Typical Allergy Treatment in the Owensboro Health Emergency Department
- First, a trained emergency RN (registered nurse) will evaluate your symptoms and decide where you will go to receive treatment. This process, called triage, may be done in a triage room or an acutal treatment room.
- After triage, you will be placed in a room, and an ED physician will be notified.
- Doctors and nurses will assess your condition and determine what needs to be done immediately. You will probably be placed on a cardiac monitor. We will also monitor your blood pressure and pulse if necessary.
- If your airway and breathing are appropriate, you will probably receive an IV so we can administer medication.
- Medications that are frequently ordered for acute allergic reactions are: Solumedrol, Zantac or Tagamet, and Benadryl—all in IV forms. If the allergy is severe, Epinephrine SQ or Brethine SQ will be ordered.
Medications commonly ordered for asthma exacerbations are: Aerosol Nebulized treatments by respiratory therapy (Albuterol, Atrovent, Xopenex) and Solumedrol IV.
In severe cases, nebulized treatments can be started immediately by your RN.
- You will be closely monitored during your stay, and if your symptoms worsen, we will notify the doctor immediately.
- Once you are stabilized, you will either be admitted or discharged according to your specific circumstances.
Pulmonary Function Testing
Owensboro Health offers many types of Pulmonary Function Tests, or PFTs, to help your doctor see how well your lungs are working. Physicians use these tests to diagnose asthma and other respiratory conditions.
Learn more about the tests we offer.
