Allergy Testing Specialist

What are allergies?

Allergies result from your immune system overreacting to a substance that's not ordinarily harmful to humans. These over-the-top immune responses to certain compounds can keep you from enjoying your daily routine.

Your body's immune response to an allergen may manifest in a variety of ways. You might notice changes in your skin, airway, sinuses, or digestive system.

What are some common allergens?

Many substances can trigger an allergic reaction. Some examples include:

• Mold
• Pollen
• Peanuts
• Shellfish
• Insect venom
• Animal dander 
• Dust mites
• Latex
• Medications

You have a higher risk of allergies if you have a family history of asthma or allergic reactions, or if you currently have asthma. Some of the symptoms of allergies can include:

• Red or itchy skin
• Chest tightness
• Wheezing
• Hives
• Swelling 
• Cough or shortness of breath
• Nausea and vomiting

If you or a loved one experiences these or other symptoms when exposed to specific materials, schedule an appointment to explore solutions.

What can be done to treat allergies?

One of the most powerful ways to treat allergies is to learn what triggers a reaction. This knowledge can allow you to take steps to avoid specific triggers.

Once you know what you’re allergic to, you can avoid and prevent exposure to those allergens. Remedies to prevent exposure may include air filtration devices, mattress and pillow protectors, antifungal sprays, and reducing dust in your home.

Another option is called immunotherapy, a technique which gradually builds up your tolerance to allergens. Weekly injections of the very allergens you are allergic to, given in tiny amounts and increased over time, retrain your immune system to become tolerant of allergens your body reacted to in the past.

An alternative method of immunotherapy, which works just as well, is sublingual immunotherapy, or SLIT. Instead of coming in to the office once a week for an allergy shot, you take the vial home and you place sublingual allergy drops containing allergens under your tongue every day. With sublingual drops, tolerance to allergies is developed over time, in some cases lessening the need for medications.

If you have a life-threatening allergy or anaphylaxis, you will need to learn how to use emergency medications to control it. Adrenaline injections are the most common treatment, although you can use steroids or antihistamines for milder cases.

To get started, make an appointment online or by phone today. Sheridan Ear, Nose & Throat offers comprehensive allergy testing to determine the allergens to which you may be sensitive.