Dr. Zurik Waxenghiser, MD

About Dr. Zurik Waxenghiser, MD

Dr. Zurik Waxenghiser, MD is an Allergy and Immunology specialist practicing at his clinic in Miami, FL. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered care, adhering to the standards of The Florida Board of Medicine and Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). He is committed to improving patients' quality of life by providing expert diagnosis and treatment for allergies, asthma, and other immunologic disorders, serving all ages. Dr. Zurik Waxenghiser is currently welcoming new patients and encourages them to call (786) 981-3290 to schedule an appointment.

With over 25 years of dedicated experience in Allergy and Immunology care, Dr. Zurik Waxenghiser brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He earned his medical degree from Thomas Jefferson University in 1995 and has extensive experience in Environmental Allergies. He is affiliated with Memorial Regional Hospital South and Mercy Health-St. Elizabeth Boardman Hospital. Dr. Waxenghiser understands the complexities of allergies and immunologic disorders and fosters a supportive, reassuring environment for patients. His approach to care is rooted in evidence-based medicine, patient education, and collaborative decision-making. He offers consultations in Spanish.

Allergy And Immunology Conditions Addressed

Dr. Zurik Waxenghiser addresses a wide range of Allergy and Immunology health concerns, including:

• Bronchitis: Bronchitis is a common respiratory illness causing a cough, often with mucus, due to irritation or infection of your bronchial tubes.
• Hypogammaglobulinemia: Hypogammaglobulinemia is a condition where your body doesn't make enough antibodies, making you more vulnerable to infections.
• Anaphylactic Food Allergies: Anaphylactic food allergies can cause a severe, life-threatening reaction after eating certain foods.
• Postnasal Drip: Postnasal drip is the feeling of mucus dripping down the back of your throat from your nasal passages.
• Anaphylactic Tree Nut Allergy: An anaphylactic tree nut allergy can cause a severe, potentially life-threatening reaction.
• All Types of Food Poisoning: Food poisoning can cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
• IgA Deficiency: IgA deficiency means your immune system has trouble producing the IgA antibody, which helps fight off infections in your respiratory and digestive tracts.
• Allergic Rhinitis: Characterized by itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, and a stuffy nose, allergic rhinitis is an allergic response to airborne allergens.
• Eczema and Contact Dermatitis: Both eczema and contact dermatitis present with skin inflammation, but contact dermatitis is caused by direct skin contact with an allergen or irritant.
• Mild Asthma: If you have mild asthma, your lung function tests show only minor limitations, and you can usually participate in most activities without significant problems.
• Pollen Allergy: If you're allergic to pollen, your immune system releases histamine and other chemicals when you breathe in pollen, causing allergy symptoms.
• Common Variable Immune Deficiency (CVID): Common Variable Immune Deficiency (CVID) is a condition where your body's immune system doesn't work as well as it should, making you more likely to get infections.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Zurik Waxenghiser addresses and is for informational purposes only; it does not constitute medical advice. The range of conditions a Allergy and Immunology manages is broad, and this list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive understanding of how he can assist with your Patient's specific health needs or to discuss any particular symptoms, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Allergy And Immunology Services Provided

Dr. Zurik Waxenghiser offers a range of services to support your Patient's health and well-being, such as:

• Patch Testing: During a patch test, small patches containing suspected allergens are applied to your back and checked for reactions after a few days.
• Radioallergosorbent Test: This blood test, called RAST, detects specific allergy antibodies to pinpoint what you're allergic to.
• Blood Allergy Testing: Blood allergy testing helps pinpoint your allergies without skin pricks, revealing sensitivities to specific substances like pollen, pet dander, or foods.
• Food Desensitization Therapy: Food desensitization is a specialized treatment that helps people with food allergies safely tolerate increasing amounts of the foods they're allergic to.
• Honeybee Desensitization Therapy: This treatment involves getting small, increasing doses of honeybee venom to build immunity and lessen severe reactions.
• Allergy Treatment: Our Allergy and Immunology service provides expert diagnosis and treatment for various allergies.
• Skin Testing and Screening: Our allergy and immunology service provides skin testing and screening to identify and diagnose allergies.
• Desensitization: This therapy aims to reduce your allergic reactions by gradually increasing your tolerance to the specific substance causing your allergies.
• Allergy Skin Testing: A small amount of allergen is applied to your skin to check for a reaction, allowing doctors to diagnose allergies such as those to pollen, pets, or food.
• Allergy Testing: This procedure helps determine what you're allergic to, guiding your personalized treatment plan.
• Allergy Shots: Allergy shots gradually expose your immune system to the allergen causing your reaction, helping it become less sensitive.
• Aeroallergen Hyposensitization Therapy: If you have severe allergies to things in the air, this therapy might help reduce your symptoms by gradually introducing small amounts of those allergens to build tolerance.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Zurik Waxenghiser. Service availability can change and not all services listed may be appropriate or offered to every patient. The scope of services provided by a Allergy and Immunology can vary. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services or to discuss your Patient's specific healthcare needs, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Some specialized procedures or advanced diagnostic tests may require referral to a subspecialist.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Allergy and Immunology in Florida and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Florida Board of Medicine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Zurik Waxenghiser:

What is an Allergist & Immunologist?

An allergist and immunologist is a medical specialist who diagnoses, treats, and manages allergies, asthma, and immune system disorders. They are experts in identifying triggers and creating personalized treatment plans for patients of all ages.

What should I expect during my first visit with Dr. Zurik Waxenghiser?

Your first visit with Dr. Waxenghiser will involve a comprehensive review of your symptoms, environmental exposures, and family history. A physical exam will follow, and allergy testing may be discussed or scheduled. Please bring a list of all medications and, if possible, avoid taking antihistamines prior to your visit, after confirming with the office.

Does Dr. Zurik Waxenghiser accept my insurance?

Insurance coverage can vary. Please call our office directly with your insurance card information to verify acceptance before your appointment.

How does Dr. Zurik Waxenghiser administer allergy shots (immunotherapy)?

Dr. Zurik Waxenghiser administers allergy shots (immunotherapy) by gradually increasing the dose of the allergen. This process trains the immune system to become less sensitive to the trigger, thereby reducing allergy symptoms and the need for medication over time, much like a vaccine.

How does Dr. Zurik Waxenghiser determine if eczema is related to allergies?

Dr. Waxenghiser will consider a patient's medical history, conduct a physical exam, and potentially order allergy testing to determine if eczema is linked to allergies. Identifying and managing allergic triggers, such as certain foods or environmental factors, is often a crucial part of effectively treating eczema.

I get sick frequently. How can Dr. Zurik Waxenghiser determine if I have an immune deficiency?

Frequent illnesses can sometimes signal an underlying immune system issue. Dr. Zurik Waxenghiser can perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine if a primary immunodeficiency is present and develop a strategy to decrease your infection risk.

What is allergy skin testing like at your office?

Skin prick testing is a common, safe, and minimally uncomfortable procedure. A tiny amount of allergen is introduced to the skin, not a shot. It typically causes mild, temporary itching, similar to a mosquito bite, if a person is allergic. Results are usually available within 15-20 minutes.

Does Dr. Zurik Waxenghiser use biologic medications for asthma or hives?

Dr. Zurik Waxenghiser may consider biologic medications for severe asthma or chronic hives that don't respond well to standard treatments. These newer medications target specific immune system molecules involved in allergic inflammation. They are an advanced option for carefully selected patients.