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315 verified Allergists in San Francisco, CA
Zocdoc verifies all providers before they can appear in Zocdoc search results. Every provider that appears in search is open to new patients.
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Availability last updated 04/04/2026
Availability last updated 04/04/2026
Nurse Practitioner
8.5 mi · 1333 Powell St, Ste 103, Emeryville, CA 94608
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients ·
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I chose medicine because I enjoy listening to my patients and finding solutions based on individual social and cultural backgrounds. Being a primary care provider is an opportunity to connect with my patients and figure out what it means for them to become healthy, to explore their knowledge and pro...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner
8.5 mi · 1333 Powell St, Ste 103, Emeryville, CA 94608
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients ·
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I am a compassionate provider with an open and holistic approach to primary care. I strive to form long-term relationships with patients to provide effective, individualized care. I have a degree in family medicine and have a particular interest in women's health, dermatologic complaints, and anxiet...Click to read more
Family Physician
8.5 mi · 1333 Powell St, Ste 103, Emeryville, CA 94608
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Expertise in chronic high blood pressure + 3 more ·
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I am a welcoming and passionate provider who encourages open discussion and education to guide patients towards healthy lifestyle choices. I enjoy working with patients in all stages of life, getting to know each of them on a personal level and working as a team to create individualized care that ta...Click to read more
Internist
8.5 mi · 1955 Broadway, Ste A, Oakland, CA 94612
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients
Internist
8.5 mi · 1955 Broadway, Ste A, Oakland, CA 94612
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients · 17 years of experience ·
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Given my adolescent and young adult medicine training, I am particularly focused on caring for patients from age 14-40. I listen attentively to patients and collaborate with them on their care plans. I particularly enjoy treating conditions related to young women's health, including contraception an...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner
8.5 mi · 1955 Broadway, Ste A, Oakland, CA 94612
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients · Expertise in acute skin infection + 9 more ·
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When it comes to patient care, I like to use a partnership-type approach. I want my patients to feel comfortable in communicating their concerns, expectations and needs with me as their provider. To provide optimal care, it is important to have healthy communication between providers and patients. I...Click to read more
Family Physician
10 mi · 750 Redwood Hwy Frontage Rd, Ste 1210, Mill Valley, CA 94941
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience ·
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I am a Remote PCP, which means I exclusively care for patients virtually in Remote Visits. I've been practicing primary care since 2005. I bring international experience and am fluent in five languages. My approach is based on lifestyle medicine as the first step in treating a variety of conditions ...Click to read more
Family Physician
10 mi · 750 Redwood Hwy Frontage Rd, Ste 1210, Mill Valley, CA 94941
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients ·
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I approach medicine as an advocate for my patients and their health, giving them the resources and knowledge I can provide. I practice from child, adolescent, reproductive health, to geriatric care. My hope is that patients leave feeling heard and that our medical decisions are made together. I stay...Click to read more
Family Physician
10 mi · 750 Redwood Hwy Frontage Rd, Ste 1210, Mill Valley, CA 94941
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients · 23 years of experience · Expertise in underactive thyroid + 5 more ·
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I am passionate about partnering with patients to enhance their health and maximize their well-being throughout their lives, with a particular focus on women's health, from peri-menopause through the senior years. Since joining One Medical in 2008, I have balanced my time between providing patient c...Click to read more
Family Physician
10 mi · 750 Redwood Hwy Frontage Rd, Ste 1210, Mill Valley, CA 94941
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Expertise in chronic high blood pressure + 7 more ·
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Born and raised in France, I entered the primary care field to provide patients with a more holistic approach to health. I believe that osteopathic medicine allows me to connect with the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of each patient through strong, evidence-based knowledge. Before joini...Click to read more
Internist
10 mi · 750 Redwood Hwy Frontage Rd, Ste 1210, Mill Valley, CA 94941
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Expertise in underactive thyroid + 6 more ·
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My goal is to motivate patients to make positive changes in their lives in order to prevent health problems and promote wellness. I am a careful listener who works with each patient to help them understand their bodies, the cause of their symptoms, and how to productively manage their health. In my ...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner
10 mi · 3850 Grand Avenue, Oakland, CA 94610
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients ·
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I enjoy partnering with patients across the lifespan about the health issues and goals important to them. I strive to create a safe space for everyone! How I stay healthy and happy: I enjoy running, yoga, and spending time with my family. Hiking and going to our beautiful California beaches also m...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner
10 mi · 3850 Grand Avenue, Oakland, CA 94610
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients ·
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As a nurse practitioner, I believe in collaborating with patients to achieve their health goals, emphasizing a preventive, holistic view that considers their physical and mental well-being. My approach values building patient relationships, providing culturally sensitive care, facilitating lifestyle...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner
4.73
·11 reviews
10 mi · 3850 Grand Avenue, Oakland, CA 94610
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 24 more
Accepting new patients ·
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As a dedicated healthcare provider, I am passionate about cultivating strong relationships based on trust, empathy, and open communication. I believe in empowering you by providing the necessary information and knowledge to make informed decisions and providing holistic, preventative care catered to...Click to read more
Physician Assistant
10 mi · 3850 Grand Avenue, Oakland, CA 94610
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients ·
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I believe the foundation to quality healthcare is communication and education. I strive to understand the specific challenges and strengths that each patient faces in becoming their healthiest self. My goal is for my patients to see me as a resource, providing the most up-to-date medical guidelines ...Click to read more
Family Physician
10 mi · 3850 Grand Avenue, Oakland, CA 94610
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients ·
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I seek to help parents, families, and individuals find healthier ways to live, interpreting the medical literature as it applies to each person's life. I think it's important to seek a measure of grace for the bodies we have and find how to live in them with joy and purpose. I especially enjoy going...Click to read more
Family Physician
10 mi · 3850 Grand Avenue, Oakland, CA 94610
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience ·
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Having been in medicine for almost 30 years, I have seen dramatic changes in diagnostic and technology capabilities in medicine. As those things have changed, the core underlying principles of patient care have remained the same for me: treat every patient as the unique individual that they are, and...Click to read more
Internist
4.00
·3 reviews
This was my first meeting with Dr. Bodor - she was very friendly and listened to my story and questions. She was knowledgeable about my issues and helpful with information and follow-up plans.Click to read more
10.5 mi · 3000 Colby St, Ste 101, Berkeley, CA 94705
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 24 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Excellent wait time · Expertise in chronic high blood pressure + 9 more ·
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Dr. Bodor-Billings is an internal medicine specialist. She graduated from University of Texas Medical School in 1990 and has been practicing in Berkeley since 2003. Dr. Bodor-Billings completed her residency at University of Texas Medical Science Center.Click to read more
Family Physician
5.00
·30 reviews
10.5 mi · 2145 University Ave, Berkeley, CA 94704
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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I am an urgent care provider who can assist you with acute / urgent needs. Over the years, I have refined my practice to reflect a holistic approach that considers the whole person — body, mind, spirit and emotions — for optimal care. I'm a strong advocate for the shared decision making approach wi...Click to read more
Physician Assistant
10.5 mi · 2145 University Ave, Berkeley, CA 94704
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients · Expertise in acute skin infection + 5 more ·
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I am passionate about making certain that my patients and I are on the same team -- that we know what we're going through and why. I like to take the time to explain things. As an LGBTQ and BIPOC member of the community, I aim to provide kindness and respect to everyone.Click to read more
Family Physician
10.5 mi · 2145 University Ave, Berkeley, CA 94704
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients · Expertise in lower back pain + 2 more ·
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I am Brett, a Bay Area native and compassionate provider who focuses on healing the body, mind, and spirit. I use education and collaboration to encourage patients to engage in their health. My comprehensive approach to primary care incorporates evidence-based medicine, complementary therapies, and ...Click to read more
Family Physician
10.5 mi · 2145 University Ave, Berkeley, CA 94704
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Expertise in lower back pain ·
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I enjoy getting to know people and working in partnership to find out what health means to each person. I appreciate each person's unique understanding of their bodies, minds, emotions, and spirit, and I seek to bring those understandings into my practice of medicine. I tend to use complementary app...Click to read more
Family Physician
10.5 mi · 2145 University Ave, Berkeley, CA 94704
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience ·
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I am out-of-network with Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans through the end of 2024. I take a whole mind and body approach that includes integrative, collaborative, and functional medicine principles to help my patients achieve their health and wellness goals. My approach is to encourage healing ...Click to read more
Physician Assistant
11 mi · 1801 Shattuck Ave, Ste A, Berkeley, CA 94709
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 24 more
Accepting new patients ·
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I believe healthcare works best when it’s a partnership. I take the time to listen and help patients understand their options, so they feel comfortable and confident in making decisions about their health. My role is to be an advocate, offering compassion, understanding, and support without judgment...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
4.77
·554 reviews
she is a great doctor who is kind and patient. I got the answers I was looking for. Highly recommended. by Tony L.Click to read more
12 mi · 101 El Camino Real, Millbrae, CA 94030
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 62 more
Accepting new patients · Excellent wait time · Expertise in enlarged prostate + 9 more ·
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Dr. Ling is a caring and knowledgeable primary care doctor. She won the 2020 Sutter Quality Care Award, chosen from 5,000+ doctors. Dr. Ling has deep experience in the medical field, having started practice in 1992. Before opening her clinic in Burlingame, she was an attending physician at Asian Hea...Click to read more
Internist
4.68
·25 reviews
My first visit was a really good one. He listened to what I had to say and seemed very compassionate. - Oct 4, 2018 by James B.Click to read more
13 mi · 1720 El Camino Real, Ste 135, Burlingame, CA 94010
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 18 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Excellent wait time · Expertise in high cholesterol + 4 more ·
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Note: Dr. Carney will no longer see any patients under 40 years of age-no exceptions. Dr. Carney is an exceptional MD with a demonstrated history of working with patients from all backgrounds. He has a small but busy private practice and is skilled in diagnosis and treatment, preventive care, and a...Click to read more
Dermatologist (Virtual)
Greenbrae, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Expertise in allergic skin reaction with hives + 3 more ·
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Dr. Sinae Kane is a board-certified dermatologist in Marin who specializes in providing the highest quality comprehensive skin care to patients. She combines compassionate dermatologic care with innovative technologies and evidence-based medicine to care for patients with a wide variety of skin cond...Click to read more
Dermatologist
13.5 mi · 1300 S Eliseo Dr, Ste 207, Greenbrae, CA 94904
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Expertise in allergic skin reaction with hives + 3 more ·
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Dr. Sinae Kane is a board-certified dermatologist in Marin who specializes in providing the highest quality comprehensive skin care to patients. She combines compassionate dermatologic care with innovative technologies and evidence-based medicine to care for patients with a wide variety of skin cond...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner
14 mi · 329 Primrose Rd, 2nd Fl, Burlingame, CA 94010
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients ·
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I aim to educate my patients and emphasize taking control of their health through positive lifestyle choices. Through careful listening and a collaborative discussion around health goals, I hope to improve quality of life and support patients as they pursue their total wellness. I keep healthy by ru...Click to read more
Family Physician
14 mi · 329 Primrose Rd, 2nd Fl, Burlingame, CA 94010
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients ·
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I believe in a collaborative, evidence-based approach to medicine. Some of my interests include preventive care, chronic disease management, LGBTQ+ care, and transgender hormone management.Click to read more
Internist
5.00
·20 reviews
14 mi · 329 Primrose Rd, 2nd Fl, Burlingame, CA 94010
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 8 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Highly recommended · Expertise in lower back pain ·
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Following medical school at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, I completed a residency in internal medicine at Seton Hall University and worked for several years in a busy practice in New York before moving to San Francisco to join One Medical Group. I am certified with the American Board...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner
14 mi · 329 Primrose Rd, 2nd Fl, Burlingame, CA 94010
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients ·
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I enjoy connecting with people, first and foremost. When it comes to health, I especially enjoy working with patients who want to pursue approaches that encourage natural healing and consider less-invasive treatment methods when possible. I'm especially passionate about preventive health, helping pe...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner
4.75
·16 reviews
14 mi · 329 Primrose Rd, 2nd Fl, Burlingame, CA 94010
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients ·
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I am a dedicated Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, passionate about providing compassionate, patient-centered care. My approach focuses on building strong relationships with my patients and empowering them to take charge of their health through education, prevention, and personalize...Click to read more
Family Physician
14 mi · 329 Primrose Rd, 2nd Fl, Burlingame, CA 94010
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients ·
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I am May Samantha Lin, a San Francisco native and a thoughtful, altruistic provider dedicated to helping patients find healing and balance through the integration of primary care and Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM). By grounding my practice in compassion, I seek to help patients develop a li...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner
15 mi · 201 Dolores Ave, San Leandro, CA 94577
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Medicare + 8 more
Accepting new patients ·
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Ms. Susana Quezada is a dedicated family nurse practitioner. She sees patients at CityHealth Urgent Care in San Leandro, CA. As part of her formal education, Ms. Quezada obtained a bachelor's degree from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences - San Marcos, CA. She stays updated on rece...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner
15 mi · 201 Dolores Ave, San Leandro, CA 94577
Accepting new patients
Primary Care Doctor
4.71
·357 reviews
Doctor was busy but kind, thorough, and answered all my questions.Click to read more
16.5 mi · 15035 E 14th St, Ste G, San Leandro, CA 94578
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 43 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Excellent wait time · Expertise in high cholesterol + 6 more ·
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Dr. Nehal Ghevariya is a board-certified physician specializing in Internal Medicine, Cosmetic and Aesthetic Medicine, and Surgery. She completed her Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery at Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Medical College, Rajkot, India. Afterward, she moved to New York City and jo...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
4.71
·357 reviews
Doctor was busy but kind, thorough, and answered all my questions.Click to read more
San Leandro, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 43 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time · Expertise in high cholesterol + 6 more ·
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Dr. Nehal Ghevariya is a board-certified physician specializing in Internal Medicine, Cosmetic and Aesthetic Medicine, and Surgery. She completed her Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery at Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Medical College, Rajkot, India. Afterward, she moved to New York City and jo...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner
17.5 mi · 2950 S Delaware St, Ste 150, San Mateo, CA 94403
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients · Expertise in upper respiratory infection (uri) ·
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I'm an Urgent Care provider with 9 years of experience. You are always welcome to see me for acute concerns like coughs, injuries and UTIs, but as an Urgent Care Provider, I don't perform routine exams like physicals, paps, pre-operative exams, disability paperwork, or manage chronic conditions, pre...Click to read more
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Verified providers with a 4.8 average rating

Primary Care Physician
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Frequently asked questions

How can I make a same-day appointment with an Allergist in San Francisco?

On average, patients who use Zocdoc can search for an Allergist in San Francisco, book an appointment, and see the Allergist within 24 hours. Same-day appointments are often available, you can search for real-time availability of Allergists in San Francisco who accept your insurance and make an appointment online.


How can I find a San Francisco Allergist who takes my insurance?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a San Francisco Allergist who takes your insurance. Just choose your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. If you’re not sure which plan you have, you can use Zocdoc’s insurance checker to find out.


How can I book an appointment online with an Allergist in San Francisco?

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find Allergists in San Francisco and book appointments instantly. You can search for San Francisco Allergists by symptom or visit reason. Then, choose your insurance plan. Based on that information, you’ll see a list of providers who meet your search criteria, along with their available appointment slots.


How can I find a female Allergist in San Francisco?

When you search for San Francisco Allergists on Zocdoc, you can filter your results by gender, in addition to other criteria. That way, you’ll only see Allergists in San Francisco who match your preferences.


How can I find a San Francisco Allergist who sees patients after hours?

On Zocdoc, you can search specifically for San Francisco Allergists with availability after 5 p.m.


How can I find a top-rated Allergist in San Francisco?

You can use Zocdoc to find Allergists in San Francisco who are highly rated by other patients. These ratings are based on verified reviews submitted by real patients. Every time a patient completes an appointment booked on Zocdoc, they’re invited to review their experience. Each review must comply with Zocdoc’s guidelines.


How can I find a video visit with an Allergist online in San Francisco?

Allergists in San Francisco on Zocdoc who see patients through online video visits will have a purple video icon on their profiles. You can also filter your search results to show only Allergists who offer video visits.


Are video visits with an Allergist online covered by my insurance?

Most insurers provide coverage for video visits at the same cost as in-person visits. You can search on Zocdoc specifically for Allergists in San Francisco who accept your insurance for video visits by selecting your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. We recommend you check with your insurance carrier directly to confirm your coverage and out of pocket costs for video visits.


How can I find an Allergist in San Francisco who sees patients in the morning or evening?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for an Allergist who has appointments available before 10:00 am, or after 5:00 pm. Just choose the special hours filter at the top of our search page.


How can I find an Allergist in San Francisco who sees patients during the weekend?

Zocdoc let's you see real-time availability for Allergists in San Francisco. Many Allergists offer appointments on Saturdays and Sundays.


What are allergies?


Allergies manifest when your immune system reacts to a foreign material — such as pollen, bee venom, or pet dander — or a meal that most people do not react to.


Antibodies are chemicals that your immune system produces. When you have allergies, your immune system produces antibodies that label a specific allergen as dangerous even though it is not. When you come into contact with an allergen, your immune system's reaction may cause inflammation of your skin, sinuses, airways, or digestive tract.


Allergies can vary in severity for every individual and can range from moderate irritation to anaphylaxis — a potentially fatal condition. While most allergies do not have a permanent cure, some available treatment options can help alleviate your allergy symptoms.


Who is an allergist?


Allergists are physicians who specialize in immunity-related disorders. Your immune system consists of disease-fighting cells, organs, and tissues. Immune system problems that an allergist treats include:


  • Allergic conditions: They develop when your immune system reacts abnormally to something you eat, breathe in (inhale), or touch.
  • Asthma: It is an inflammation of the airways of your lungs. Stimuli in your surroundings usually trigger asthma attacks.
  • Primary immunodeficiency diseases: These are hereditary illnesses that cause your immune system to malfunction. There are around 200 different types of primary immunodeficiency diseases.


It is best to consult an allergy specialist near you if you suspect these issues. 


What does an allergist do?


Allergists can perform and interpret several diagnostic procedures relating to immune system disorders. They can accordingly provide treatment for the identified issues. Allergists can help you with the following:


  • Test for allergies related to food, pollen (grass, trees, weeds), pet dander, mold, and other triggers.
  • Diagnose asthma by testing your lung function.
  • Prescribe medications or medical equipment to help prevent, treat, or minimize allergic responses and asthma episodes.
  • Suggest lifestyle modifications to avoid asthma and allergy triggers.
  • Give allergy injections or other types of immunotherapy to help minimize allergic reactions.
  • Diagnose immunodeficiency conditions.
  • Suggest how to avoid infection while living with an immunological disease.
  • Administer intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) to treat certain immune disorders.
  • Perform drug desensitization so that you can take essential drugs safely.


When should you visit an allergist near you?


There are many types of allergies, and they may not always be apparent. Several indicators suggest you should see an allergist, including:


  • Over-the-counter allergy medications do not work

Even if you already know you have "hay fever" or other seasonal allergies, seeing an allergist may be helpful. If conventional over-the-counter (OTC) allergy drugs aren't correctly treating your symptoms, an allergist can prescribe stronger medications to help you alleviate symptoms.


  • Insomnia or chronic snoring

Many allergies result in substantial sinus irritation. That might make breathing difficult while sleeping, leading to snoring or sleeplessness. 


  • Sinus or ear infections that are chronic

While germs or viruses do not cause allergies, they can make you more susceptible to illnesses. Specific allergies might create inflammation in your sinuses or eustachian tubes, preventing them from clearing.


This offers an ideal setting for ear or sinus infections. If you have either of these issues frequently, seeing an allergist may help you avoid them in the future.


  • Unusual mouth and throat irritation

Food allergies do not always cause significant symptoms, as peanut and shellfish allergies sometimes do. Instead, they may merely cause itching and soreness in the mouth, face, or throat regularly. 


What to expect when you are visiting an allergist?


When you visit an allergist near you, they will ask questions to better understand when your allergy symptoms are most prevalent. They may also run several tests to pinpoint specific allergies. These tests may include the following:


  • Blood tests
  • Patch tests
  • Skin examinations
  • Pulmonary function tests
  • Nasal smears


Typically, small amounts of allergens are used in these tests to discover which allergens, if any, trigger an immunological response.


They will provide a recommendation based on the results of these tests. Treating minor allergies can be as easy as avoiding the allergen or using over-the-counter antihistamines since most allergies are caused by your immune system producing too much histamine, particularly pollen and dander allergies. If it is not possible to avoid particular medications, an allergist can give a stronger medication to alleviate symptoms.


Severe allergies may necessitate a more aggressive course of treatment. Allergists can recommend an epinephrine pen for use in emergencies for patients with severe allergies or those who have previously experienced anaphylactic shock.


They may also advise immunotherapy for persistent allergies. This is a treatment plan that gradually desensitizes your immune system to certain allergens.


What is the difference between an allergy and a cold?


Colds and allergies share several symptoms, such as runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, congestion, fatigue, and coughing. However, colds may also bring aches, pains, fever, and sometimes itchy, watery eyes, whereas allergies typically do not cause aches, pains, or fever but can lead to itchy, watery eyes.


If you notice symptoms in April accompanied by visible yellow-green pollen, especially on surfaces like your car, it’s likely you are experiencing seasonal allergies or hay fever. This likelihood increases if you experience similar symptoms at the same time each year. While colds can occur any time, including spring and summer, they are most common in colder weather. 


The onset of symptoms can also help pinpoint the cause. Allergy symptoms generally begin almost immediately after exposure to an allergen, such as pollen. For example, if you are allergic to pollen, you might experience symptoms as soon as you encounter it. Conversely, cold germs typically take one to three days before symptoms develop. If you’ve recently been near someone who is sick, your symptoms are more likely due to a cold.


Colds usually last from three days to about a week, though some people may experience symptoms for up to two weeks. An improvement after a few days typically suggests recovery from a cold. If your symptoms progressively worsen each day, it might indicate a bacterial infection. You should consult a doctor if the symptoms persist beyond one to two weeks or worsen after about five days.


Allergy symptoms persist as long as you’re exposed to the trigger. For example, if you’re allergic to cat dander, your sniffles should subside once you move away from a cat. 


How can I find an allergy specialist near me in San Francisco? 


Finding a qualified allergist in your neighborhood, especially in emergencies, can be difficult. Use Zocdoc, which is an online platform that aids in connecting you with required healthcare providers.


After creating an account, enter your condition, specialty, location, date, and insurance plan. If you cannot find your insurance plan listed on Zocdoc, you have the option to upload a photo of your medical insurance card. Kindly note that this option is not available for vision or dental insurance cards. Once uploaded, we will scan the image of your card to help identify your plan. If you encounter any issues while uploading your photo, please reach out to our service team for assistance. For additional insurance-related questions, feel free to visit Zocdoc’s insurance page. Based on your search criteria, Zocdoc will give you a comprehensive list of the best allergy specialists near you in San Francisco. Depending on the doctor's availability, patients can make a same-day appointment or schedule appointments outside regular business hours or on weekends.


Each primary care doctor has a detailed profile on Zocdoc that includes a synopsis of their education, training, locations, how frequently they see patients, and—most importantly—verified reviews and ratings by past patients. These reviews will help you choose the right allergist near you. Once you have decided on the provider, you can set up video appointments on Zocdoc or schedule an in-person meeting. 


On Zocdoc, scheduling an appointment is secure, quick, and free!


Statistics related to allergies


According to data published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly one-third of adults in the United States reported a seasonal allergy, eczema, or food allergy in 2021. The same data reports that seasonal allergy was the most common of these three allergies. It affected around one-quarter of individuals (~25.7%), followed by eczema (~7.3%) and food allergy (~6.2%). Women were more likely than men to have a diagnosed allergy in all three categories. The incidence of diagnosed eczema and food allergies decreased with increasing age. In contrast, the prevalence of a diagnosed seasonal allergy was about 24.7% in adults aged 18-44, nearly 27.9% in adults aged 45-64, approximately 26.4% in adults aged 65-74, and about 21.7% in adults aged 75 and above. 


Sources


WebMD[1]

Cleveland Clinic

Mayo Clinic

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

WebMD[2]


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