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Allergy Testing & Treatment

Millions of Americans are affected by environmental allergies each year. In addition to the common “hay fever” symptoms (sneezing, itchy/watery eyes, runny nose and congestion), allergies can cause recurrent sinus infections, ear infections, hoarseness, cough and worsening asthma. Pasadena ENT and Allergy has board certified ENT allergists that provide one stop shopping for all your sinus needs. Dr. Jaquish and Dr. Dunlevy have extensive experience in diagnosing and treating allergies; whether with medicines, allergy shots or sinus surgery.

Allergy Diagnosis

During your office visit, your physician will take an extensive history of all your sinus and allergy complaints. Prior allergy testing and any x-rays or CT scans will also be reviewed. Based on your complaints, medications may be prescribed and allergy testing or CT scans may be ordered. Skin testing on the arm is the most accurate type of allergy testing and is usually scheduled. However, based on certain criteria, blood testing (RAST) may be recommended instead.

Allergy Treatment

Avoidance: The most effective way to treat allergies is to avoid what you are allergic to. This is easily done when there is just single allergen: such as a cat or dog. In most cases it is not possible to avoid all the offending agents.

Medication: Medications are the primary form of allergy treatment. 80% of patients with allergy respond well to medications. They usually include a combination of antihistamines, decongestants, nasal sprays or good, old-fashioned, salt-water irrigations.

Immunotherapy: Medications do not prevent the symptoms, but rather just control them. Allergy (immunotherapy) shots or under-the-tongue (sublingual) allergy drops are the only way to alter your immune system and stop your body from reacting to the pollens and dander in your environment. Immunotherapy shots or drops are tailored to your specific allergies and the series usually takes several years to complete. At the end of the immunotherapy most patients are “cured” of their allergies.

Dr. Jaquish and Dr. Dunlevy will discuss all available treatment options at your visit and will recommend the best one for you.

Additional Resources

 

Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America

 Allergy Testing & Treatment