Angioedema is a condition that develops, often in response to an allergen. Because of its potential consequences, it is important for those suffering from it to consult an angioedema specialist. This angioedema specialist would be in a good position to diagnose the condition, to determine what its triggers and causes were, and to formulate an effective treatment plan for it.
So what exactly qualifies a medical doctor to be an angioedema specialist? And how would you go about finding one? First of all, it is important to note that a condition like angioedema is addressed by different sub-fields of medicine, so it is possible for medical doctors working in different fields of specialization to be angioedema specialists.
Who can be an Angioedema Specialist?
Many angioedema specialists are dermatologists. This is easy to understand. Dermatologists are medical doctors who treat patients of all ages for skin disorders, some STDs, and disorders of the nails, hair, and mouth. The primary focus of dermatologists is the skin. Hence, they treat both allergic and non-allergic conditions of the skin. A dermatologist who has plenty of experience treating patients with allergies is bound to come across patients who suffer from angioedema and urticaria often. Hence, he or she will come to recognize various manifestations of these conditions and will learn to see patterns and connections where other medical doctors might miss them.
Dermatologists can be a great resource for angioedema patients because they are often the first medical professionals consulted by those suffering from the condition. These patients may not know what exactly they have or why, but they can see that it affects the deeper layers of their skin. If a dermatologist is consulted under these circumstances and turns out to be an angioedema specialist, well and good. If not, the dermatologist can always refer the patient to another medical professional who he or she feels is better equipped to address the problem.
Other medical specialists who may be highly qualified to treat angioedema are allergy and immunology specialists. These are medical professionals whose training and experience have prepared them to deal with a variety of allergic and immune issues. Angioedema falls under their purview. Hence, they often have the knowledge and know-how to give angioedema patients great medical support. Pediatricians are also often consulted as angioedema specialists. Because their focus is the health of children, they have been exposed to a wide range of children’s illnesses and conditions. This makes them versatile and often equips them with broad understanding of the disease process and its connections with allergies and immunological processes.
—————————————————————————————————-
Resources
http://www.vitals.com/disorders/massachusetts/boston/angioedema/
