Allergy

Treatment of irritants in the environment that affect the ears, noses sinuses and throat, including the voice.

Diagnosis

Allergies and related problems, affect a large portion of our patients. Commonly, patients present with runny, itchy nose and eyes, blocked ears, and wheezing. These reactions represent an overly reactive immune response to dust, pollen, mold, animal dander and other irritants in the environment such as chemical (e.g., smog) and climate factors. These symptoms can interfere with normal daily activity and can significantly worsen a patient's quality of life.

Symptom Control

The first line treatment for allergic disease is avoidance. This may involve simple measures such as using a high quality air filter in the bedroom, avoiding certain animals, or using specially designed mattress and pillow covers. Additional symptom control can be achieved using medication. These may include antihistamines, decongestants, and steroid nasal sprays that are not absorbed so they do not affect the body.

Allergy Testing and Desensitization

Additional, more specific treatment modalities will be utilized. Allergy testing can be done using a simple blood test, or in the office, by placing small volumes of the allergic material into the skin. Based on the results of these tests, patient specific allergy desensitization can be offered to lower the patient's sensitivity to allergen. This consists of regularly scheduled allergy vaccines administered by the staff in the office.

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