What are allergies?

An allergy is an abnormal reaction to an ordinarily harmless substance called an allergen. When the allergen is absorbed into the body of an allergic person, symptoms such as a runny nose, watery eyes, itching and sneezing develop. People can be allergic to only one or to several allergens.

In the United States, allergies affect 1 out of 6 people. The most common allergens are pollens, molds, dust mites, animal dander, foods, medications, cockroach droppings and insect stings. Recent studies have shown that 10% of people who suffer from chronic ear infections develop allergies.

Types of allergic reactions

There is a wide range of allergic reactions depending on the type of allergy and how it is absorbed in the body including:

Seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) is caused by an allergy to the pollen of trees, grasses or weeds. The multiple and high pollen count in Metro Atlanta contributes to a higher incidence of seasonal allergic rhinitis. Symptoms are sneezing, itching and watery eyes, runny nose, burning palate and throat. Allergic rhinitis refers generally to symptoms of nasal congestion, sneezing and runny nose due to allergies. Seasonal allergies can also develop into or trigger asthma. Patients with constant nasal symptoms should consult their physician.

Eczema or atopic dermatitis is a non-contagious, itchy rash that often occurs on the hands, arms, legs and neck. Sometimes it can cover the entire body. Contact dermatitis is a reaction that causes red, itchy and inflamed areas of the skin which came in contact with allergens such as plants, cosmetics, medications, metals and chemicals.

Hives are red, itchy and swollen areas of the skin that vary in size and can appear anywhere on the body. About 25% of Americans will experience an episode of hives at least once in their lives.

How can I tell if I have allergies?

Once you or your physician have decided your allergies require further evaluation, Weiss and West ENT offers allergy testing by appointment. An allergy specialist is recommended for those patients with moderate to severe allergy symptoms throughout most of the year.

Allergy testing can be performed through a skin prick test or by a blood test. In the skin prick test a small amount of a possible allergen is placed on the skin and a series of needle pricks allows the solution to enter the skin. If the skin develops a red, raised itchy area, it usually means the person is allergic to that specific allergen.

Blood tests look for antibodies in the blood and are usually for people who are not able to have skin tests.

Allergy therapy and treatments

Weiss and West ENT offers two types of therapy in the treatment of allergies:

Subcutaneous Immunotherapy, or allergy shots, are given over a period of several years after which most patients are relieved of symptoms. Subcutaneous Immunotherapy is helpful when the allergen cannot be avoided such as pollens or dust mites.

Sublingual Immunotherapy is a method of allergy treatment that uses an allergen solution given under the tongue, which reduces sensitivity to allergens. Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT) can be purchased at our office and given at home in adults and children. Unfortunately, at this time, Sublingual Immunotherapy is not covered by most insurance companies.

The tendency to have allergies is genetically inherited. Successful allergy treatment includes early detection, proper use of medications and avoiding allergens when possible. It can be dangerous to ignore allergy symptoms. Severe and untreated hay fever may lead to asthma, sinusitis and other serious conditions. Allergic dermatitis can spread into a secondary infection if not treated.