Allergy Testing

Allergies are caused when your body’s immune system reacts to substances that wouldn’t trigger a reaction in most people. This can be a natural substance such as pollen or animal dander. This can present as runny nose or nasal congestion and can be the source of recurrent sinus infections. Our office uses skin testing to identify allergic triggers and develop treatment plans for our patients. Testing results are discussed on the same day to customize a treatment plan for each patient.

Allergen Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is a preventative treatment for allergy symptoms due to inhaled substances such as pollen, house dust mite, molds, and animal dander. Immunotherapy involves the administration of gradually increasing doses of those allergens to which the person is allergic. The incremental increase of the allergen given causes the immune system to become less sensitive to the substances. The purpose is to reduce allergy medications, improve symptoms and quality of life, and prevent the progression of allergic disease.

Allergy drops, or sublingual immunotherapy, and allergy shots both utilize the same mechanism. By using the results of your skin prick test, we are able to identify the most relevant allergens to include in your treatment. Ear, Nose and Throat Center offers both types of immunotherapy in order to give the patient the solution that best fits their lifestyle.

Who is a Good Candidate for Shots?

Patients with allergic rhinitis with symptoms that are not well controlled with medication management or require high doses of medications would benefit from allergy shots. In addition, those who experience adverse effects of medications or wish to reduce long term medication use are good candidates. 70 to 80% of appropriate candidates will experience an improvement in symptoms and a reduction in medications.

To schedule an appointment to discuss allergy testing and treatment with your provider, call (847) 685-1000.