Every year, more and more people are suffering from seasonal “hay fever”, i.e. running noses, conjunctivitis or even asthma. In most cases, these symptoms are due to pollen allergy. Even though these pollens are not life threatening in principle, these symptoms can become severe challenging daily life and increasing risk of chronic diseases. Recurrent inflammatory diseases of the skin (e.g. eczema, atopic dermatitis) and the respiratory system (asthma) can be the consequences of such allergies. Besides the personal stress, pollen allergy can impact work life due to sick leaves leading to economic burden as well. As there are numerous pollens to which a person can react, an allergy test should be performed to confirm the type of the allergen to which such a person is sensible. You are also welcome to visit our pollen widget to inform yourself about the actual pollen concentration in Vienna.

Dr. Okamoto informs you about allergies

An allergy in general is a specific form of intolerance or hypersensitivity, leading to overreactions to certain substances that are otherwise harmless. Allergies are inborn and persist during the entire life.

Univ. Prof. Dr. Okamoto informs as a medical expert in the field of dermatology and venerology at gesund.at:

  • For whom is Desensitization suitable?
  • When is the best time for Desensitization?
  • How does the plan for Desensitization looks like?
  • Which success is realistic?
  • Can children be treated by Desensitization?

Specific treatment to allergic patients at Dr. Okamoto’s office in Vienna

Allergies to pollens are sometimes hard to avoid. If symptomatic treatment is not sufficient to prevent allergic reactions, specific treatment is recommended. Desensitization has become a world wide accepted method to induce immune tolerance. There are two treatments so far available: by injection in the skin or oral application. The treatment should be continued for a total length of 3 years, however, novel treatment methods allow to apply the therapy for 7 months per year (orally) instead of monthly injections for 3 years, respectively.

Depending of the season, different pollens are in the air. In general, desensitization should be started 4 months prior to exposure. For birch, the fall (typically November) is the optimal time to start with desensitization. For grass pollen allergy, the time to start is January. An allergy test at an allergy center is required for a successful treatment.

Contact Prof. Dr. Okamoto

For appointments, please contact us by phone +43 1 40114/5701, 5702 or 5703, or via E-Mail at ordination@hautarztokamoto.at or contact form.