Head of Allergy & Asthma Department

Dr Ahmed El-Rafei

Specialities

Head of Allergy & Asthma Department

Years of Experience

35

Languages Spoken

AR, EN

Head of Allergy & Asthma Department

Dr Ahmed El-Rafei

Specialities

Head of Allergy & Asthma Department

Years of Experience

35

Languages
Spoken

AR, EN

Doctor's Bio

Dr Ahmed El-Rafei has over 35 years’ experience in the field of Allergy and Bronchial Asthma. He is a distinguished physician who has been lauded by numerous professional societies, governmental agencies, universities, and foreign countries for his significant medical, teaching, research and professional writings.

Dr El-Rafei is a Fellow of the American Academy of Allergy and Asthma. He had the honor of being one of the founding members of the Saudi Society of Allergy, Asthma and Clinical Immunology, KSA, where he worked in one of the Kingdom’s most prestigious and leading healthcare providers, a member of the American Group Practice Association.

When he moved to Dubai, he also had the honor of being one the founding members of the Emirates Allergy and Respiratory Society.

Dr El-Rafei completed his specialization in Allergy and Asthma at Georgetown University Hospital, USA, alongside one of the most prominent allergists in the field, Prof Dr Joseph Bellanti, President of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.

During his stay in the USA, he was invited to lecture on Allergy and Asthma in both the School of Medicine and the School of Science (Department of Biology) at Georgetown University

While in Dubai, Dr El-Rafei was appointed by one of the most prestigious medical institutes, the world-renowned (Methodist Hospital), as Staff Allergy and Asthma Specialist in Dubai.

He has been invited by many Societies, medical, non-medical and public, to lecture and update both the medical profession and the community about Asthma and Allergy. He was also selected by one of the most renowned International Pharmaceutical Companies to be its medical adviser/consultant to benefit from his knowledge and expertise in the field.

He has also had articles published in esteemed international medical journals in the field of Allergy and Asthma.

Dr El-Rafei treats patients of all ages (starting age of 2 to Adults).

Focus Area
  • Allergies
  • Immunotherapy/Allergy Vaccines
  • Asthma
  • Nasal and Sinus Allergy
  • Skin allergy
  • Food and Drug Allergy
  • Insect Allergy
  • Asthma & Allergic Rhinitis
  • Skin Prick Allergy Test
  • Spirometry
  • Vaccines
Experience

35 years of experience working at some of the most prestigious hospitals in the US, Europe and UAE.

Education

Georgetown University, USA

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the common symptoms of allergies?
Frequent sneezing, nasal congestion or runny nose, itchy and red eyes, skin rash, and mild itching or swelling of the skin. If symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, dizziness or loss of consciousness, or rapid heartbeat occur, this may indicate a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) that requires immediate medical attention.

2. What are the most common causes of allergies?
The most common causes of allergies include dust and pollen, pet dander (from cats and dogs), certain foods such as nuts, eggs, milk, and fish, insect stings (or bites), some medications like antibiotics and pain relievers, in addition to environmental factors like mold, smoke, and irritant chemicals.

3. How can allergies be diagnosed?
Allergies can be diagnosed through several accurate and effective methods:
● Skin tests: such as the prick test, where small amounts of allergenic substances are applied to the skin to observe any reaction.
● Blood tests: to measure IgE antibodies, especially when skin tests are not suitable.
● Challenge test: mainly for food allergies, where the patient is given small amounts of the suspected food under strict medical supervision to confirm the diagnosis.
These methods help the doctor accurately identify the type of allergy and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

4. What are the ways to prevent allergy attacks?
Ways to prevent allergy attacks focus on avoiding triggers and reducing exposure. They include:
● Avoiding allergenic substances: such as household dust, animal dander, certain foods, or medications known to cause allergies.
● Using preventive medications: like antihistamines or nasal corticosteroid sprays when needed, as prescribed by a doctor.
● Controlling the environment: keeping the home clean, using air filters, and reducing humidity to prevent dust mites and mold.
● Emergency planning: carrying an epinephrine injector if you are at risk of severe allergies and knowing how to use it.
● Following a safe diet: for food allergies, read labels carefully and avoid trigger foods

5. What are the advanced treatments available for allergies?
Advanced allergy treatments aim to reduce symptoms and prevent severe attacks. This includes immunotherapy through injections or sublingual tablets to gradually decrease the body’s sensitivity. Biologic medications, such as anti-IgE drugs, are used for severe cases. Additionally, antihistamines and steroid nasal sprays are employed, along with preventive measures and minimizing exposure to triggers.