Your immune system detects threats and releases chemicals to fight off infection. An allergy occurs when your immune system mistakes a typically benign substance, such as pollen, peanuts, or pet dander, as a threat and then overreacts.

As a result, you experience an allergic response, which could include symptoms such as:

• Runny or stuffy nose
• Itchy, watery, red eyes
• Coughing and wheezing
• Rashes and hives
• Swelling
• Nausea and vomiting

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that affects several body systems at the same time. It can cause your blood pressure to drop, your respiration rate to fall, and trigger severe swelling.

When should I talk to a doctor about allergies?

Allergies can change over time. For example, some children grow out of allergies. However, your allergies can become more severe. If you think you or your child have an allergy, make an appointment with the doctors at Ear, Nose & Throat Care, PC.

They offer comprehensive allergy testing to identify the specific substances that trigger your allergies and personalized treatment plans to reduce or eliminate your symptoms.

What happens during allergy testing?

The board-certified allergists at Ear, Nose & Throat Care, PC provide state-of-the-art allergy testing, using personalized templates to quickly and efficiently identify your allergies. They use three main types of skin tests: percutaneous and intracutaneous.

Percutaneous

Puncture, prick, and scratch tests are percutaneous allergy tests. These are the most common methods of applying a diluted amount of a suspected allergen to your skin.

Intradermal

During an intradermal test, the allergist injects a small amount of purified allergen extract into the skin of your arm.

The doctor stays with you through the duration of your allergy test, watching for immediate allergic reactions.

You might need to avoid taking medications like over-the-counter antihistamines, tricyclic antidepressants, or any nighttime or PM medicines. Let your doctor know about prescriptions, vitamins, or supplements that you take every day.

How are allergies treated?

After your rapid in-office, one-step evaluation, the allergists and ENT specialists collaborate to deliver coordinated, personalized treatment. Depending on your type of allergy, they devise a treatment plan.

Hives (urticaria)

Hives are swollen, itchy, red bumps that appear on the skin due to an allergen trigger such as certain foods and medications. If you have a case of hives, your doctor may recommend medications such as anti-itch and anti-inflammatory drugs. For severe attacks, you may need an emergency injection of epinephrine.

Food allergies

With food allergies, you want to avoid certain foods that cause symptoms. Common food allergies include dairy, peanuts, and eggs.

Immunodeficiencies

To determine if you suffer from an immunodeficiency disorder, your doctor performs a thorough evaluation. They ask you about your medical history, perform a physical exam, and take blood and antibody tests. If a diagnosis is confirmed, they may prescribe antibiotics and immunoglobulin therapy.

Call Ear, Nose & Throat Care, PC, or make an appointment online today for expert allergy diagnosis and treatment.