Allergies Specialist

What are allergies?

Allergies are an exaggerated response from your immune system to something that isn't a harmful substance. The body sees a benign object as a threatening foreign body and releases histamines and other hormones to combat the allergen. 

An allergic reaction can range from minor to life-threatening and may include: 

• Itchy or watery eyes
• Sneezing or coughing
• Dry or itchy mouth and throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Difficulty breathing
• Swollen airways
• Hives or skin reactions 
• Sinus or nasal congestion 
• Headaches
• Stomach or digestive issues

Allergies can contribute to problems such as laryngitis, asthma, or frequent respiratory infections. Your body's reaction to allergens can cause minor or severe inflammation of the vocal cords, nasal passages, airways, and sinuses. 

What are common triggers for allergies? 

What constitutes an allergen is unique to each person. A key element of treating your allergies is identifying your specific triggers. Common allergens include:

• Pollen from trees, grass, and weeds
• Dust and dust mites
• Mold and fungi spores
• Tobacco smoke
• Air pollution or airborne chemicals
• Perfumes or fragrance
• Animal dander 

Other triggers include food, medications, and insect bites. Lake Grove ENT offers skin allergy testing for specific allergens that are common locally. By identifying what your body is reacting to, they can develop a personalized treatment plan that helps reduce your allergy symptoms. 

What are the treatments for allergies?

Lake Grove ENT offers various allergy treatments. They can't cure your allergy; instead, treatment reduces the reaction your body has to an allergen. The team develops your treatment plan based on your specific allergens and symptoms. 

Your treatment plan may include avoiding triggers, allergy medications, allergy shots, and sublingual immunotherapy. Allergy shots introduce a small amount of allergen to the body to gradually build an immunity to the trigger. 

Sublingual immunotherapy works the same way but introduces a concentrated, liquid form of the allergen under your tongue rather than by injection. Both methods work with the body's natural immune response to build tolerance and reduce your allergic reactions. 

If you experience allergies, call the office or schedule an appointment online with Lake Grove ENT for allergy testing and relief from your symptoms.