Itching, sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion – if you feel like you “always have a cold,” then you probably are suffering from allergies. But what about coughing, wheezing, rashes and watery eyes? Most of the time these symptoms are caused by allergy as well. Whether sporadic, seasonal or year-round, allergy symptoms can be so distracting that they impair your sleep and your work performance.

Listen to our testimonial:

What are allergies?

Allergies are caused by a hypersensitive immune response to a harmless substance such as food, pollen, house dust or cat dander. These “antigens” elicit the production of abnormally high levels of IgE “antibodies” which induce a cascade of biochemical reactions leading to unpleasant symptoms.

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What’s the big deal?

Almost one in five Americans suffer from allergy, making it one of the most common chronic illnesses in the United States. Allergies typically begin in childhood, with peak symptoms often occurring between the ages of 5 and 25 – critical years for learning and career development. Indeed, quality of life surveys show that allergic patients generally suffer as much or more than patients with other serious chronic illnesses like high blood pressure and diabetes. Allergies in children are a common cause of ear infections, snoring and sore throats.

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How is it diagnosed?

Allergies are most commonly diagnosed by pediatricians and family physicians on the basis of history and a clinical examination. Typical clinical findings include a long face, “allergic shiners,” long silky eyelashes and a crease across the bridge of the nose. The interior of the nose is often pale and swollen, with thick, clear mucous. Rashes may appear on the skin and wheezing may be heard in the lungs.

When should I see a specialist?

You may be referred to an otolaryngologist (ear, nose and throat specialist) or an allergist if the diagnosis is uncertain or if you fail to respond to medical treatment. All allergists and ear, nose and throat specialists are trained to properly diagnose and treat allergies. The designation “Fellow of the American Academy of Otolaryngic Allergy” is reserved for those ENT specialists who have completed an additional course of postgraduate training, peer-reviewed clinical experience, and passed a written and oral examination. Our staff are active members of this Academy and Dr. Armstrong has been a fellow since 2007.

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What should I expect at my consultation?

At the time of your first visit, we will perform and complete history and ENT physical examination, often complemented by a video endoscopic examination of your nose. If allergy testing is recommended, we will likely schedule that on a follow-up visit, after we have adjusted medications and properly prepared you. If you need nasal surgery, or your child needs a tonsillectomy, adenoidectomy or ear tubes, we are delighted to schedule the allergy skin test during the same anesthetic as your surgery.

>> What Are Allergy Tests?

Do I need shots?

Not necessarily. Most allergic people can manage their symptoms by minimizing exposure to the offending antigens and by taking medication when necessary. However, the only way to cure allergies or asthma is through careful desensitization with progressive doses of allergy shots or with drops placed under the tongue. With our availability of sedated allergy testing and sublingual allergy drops, you could possibly complete the entire treatment without seeing a needle.

>> What Is Immunotherapy?

What does it cost?

Most insurance companies cover the cost of allergy testing and allergy shots. Allergy drops are usually not covered by insurance, but may be comparable in cost for those who have high co-payment for each shot. Over time, allergy immunotherapy is economical compared to the cost of taking two or more brand name allergy medications on a daily basis.

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What are the risks?

Allergy testing and immunotherapy do carry a risk of inducing a severe allergy attack. Doses are increased step-wise according to your own skin reactions to each antigen, in order to minimize reactions. All treatment and testing is performed under physician supervision.

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