Allergy Symptoms And Treatment

Allergy Symptoms And Treatment

Especially in the spring, many people's minds turn to allergies and what treatment works for them. If you are suffering from allergy symptoms in Springfield, and Northampton, MA, Ear, Nose & Throat Surgeons of Western New England offer a variety of treatment options that can help you. 

About 20% of Americans suffer from some sort of allergies. Both indoor and outdoor allergies, as well as food, drug, latex, insect, skin, and eye allergies are quite prevalent among both children and adults. Allergies occur when your immune system overreacts to something it is exposed to. Exactly why this happens is not completely understood, but it is important to help people learn to control their reactions. Avoiding exposure is the best option, but it isn't always possible. 

Symptoms

Allergy Symptoms in Springfield, and Northampton, MA include sneezing more than just once and having a nose that is congested, runny, and/or itchy. When your nose is congested you breathe through your mouth, which causes a dry mouth. If your nose is dripping into your throat, you may get a sore throat. When you are congested it can lead to a loss of smell or taste. Looking really sick with dark circles under your eyes, and cold-like symptoms for extended periods of time. This can cause recurring ear and sinus infections. Noticing that you can't hear from one or both ears and itchy eyes that are annoying and uncomfortable are all symptoms.

Treatment for allergies 

Immunotherapy 

This form of treatment can be used when avoiding allergens and over-the-counter medication has not successfully controlled the problem. By using shots or drops, your ENT will be desensitizing you to what you are allergic to. 

Traditional in-office allergy shots

For some people, the best method of treatment is getting an allergy shot at the doctor's office. This can be very effective. 

Allergy testing

Before testing for what you are actually allergic to, you will get a PFT (pulmonary function test) to find out how well your lungs are working. This will help the ENT to determine if you have allergies alone or whether you have asthma. Testing can trigger an asthma attack and safety is the main concern. 

Skin Prick Testing pricks the skin with allergens and then the site is observed for any reaction. Several things can be tested at the same time. 

Intradermal (IDT) Skin Testing injects the allergens under the skin and then again watches for any reaction.  

If you are suffering from allergy symptoms in Springfield, MA, and Northampton, MA, you can count on Ear, Nose & Throat Surgeons of Western New England to provide the services you need. Call for an appointment at 413-732-7426 (Springfield) or 413-586-2033 (Northampton).