Allergies affect more than 50 million Americans a year. Though they are very common, it may be difficult to pinpoint their actual root cause. Your ear, nose and throat doctor is an important factor in diagnosing your allergies and treating their symptoms. But what are allergy symptoms and how can your doctor help? Find out more with help from your Springfield, MA ENT.

What are some common allergy symptoms? 
Allergies come from various triggers which have different effects on different parts of your body. Some common allergies include:

• Seasonal allergies: Seasonal allergies come from natural elements found outside, such as pollen, grass, certain weeds and trees. While seasonal allergies take place all year, some sufferers only suffer from them during certain seasons. Some symptoms of seasonal allergies are sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, cough, runny nose and congestion.
• Pet allergies: Allergies to dogs or cats are almost as common as their presence in our homes. Pet dander comes from any animal with hair, but people are most often allergic to cats, dogs, rodents (mice, guinea pigs, etc.) or horses. People are not allergic to the animal itself, but the dander from its hair. Symptoms of pet allergies are similar to seasonal allergies and include sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes and congestion.

How can my doctor help? 
Your Springfield doctor diagnoses your specific allergens with an allergy test. Once your allergy is diagnosed, the best way to avoid its symptoms is to avoid the allergen. Since that is not always possible, medications like antihistamines or seasonal allergy shots help relieve and even prevent symptoms. Another treatment eliminates the allergy altogether by training your immune system to respond differently. This is achieved by using immunotherapy which repeatedly exposes you to the allergen. Work with your doctor to determine the best course of treatment for you.

For more information on the diagnosis and treatment of allergies, please contact your doctor at Ear, Nose and Throat Surgeons of Western New England in Springfield, MA. Call (413)732-7426 to speak with an associate about scheduling your allergy test today!