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You are not alone if you suffer from allergies. Allergies are very common, affecting an estimated 50 million Americans, which is one in every six people in the United States. A wide array of allergens may trigger an allergic reaction in sensitive people through the air, by touch, or by ingestion. They can appear at any age, and can even disappear in childhood only to reappear in adulthood. What are Allergies? An allergy is an exaggerated immune response or reaction to substances that are generally not harmful. Those who have allergies are sensitive to more than one thing. Often, substances that cause reactions include:
* Pollen
* Dust mites
* Mold spores
* Pet dander
* Food
* Insect stings
* Medicines It is believed that both genes and the environment surround you contribute to your allergies. Many people believe an allergy as merely "hay fever," with sneezing, a runny nose, nasal stuffiness and itchy, watery eyes. However, allergies can also cause symptoms such as chronic sinus problems, postnasal drip, head congestion, frequent colds, and recurring ear infections, hearing loss, dizziness, chronic cough and asthma. Stomach and intestinal problems, such as skin rashes, chronic headaches and fatigue can be symptoms of allergies. Allergies can affect your ears, nose and throat, among other areas of your body. Why does the Body Develop Allergies? Allergy symptoms appear when the immune system reacts to an allergic substance that has entered the body as though it was an unwelcomed invader. The immune system will produce special antibodies capable of recognizing the same allergic substance if it enters the body at a later time. When an allergen does reenter the body, the immune system rapidly recognizes it causing a series of reactions. These reactions often involve tissue destruction, blood vessel dilation, and production of many inflammatory substances including histamine, which produces common allergy symptoms such as itchy, watery eyes, nasal and sinus congestion, headaches, sneezing, scratchy throat, hives, shortness of breath, etc. Other less common symptoms are balance disturbances, skin irritations such as eczema, and even respiratory problems like asthma. When to see an ENT Specialist An otolaryngologist (ENT Specialist) is able to diagnose and treat disorders of the upper respiratory tract caused by allergic conditions. Aside from gathering a detailed history and completing a thorough examination of the ears, nose, throat, head, and neck, your ENT specialist will offer advice on proper environmental control and evaluate the sinuses to determine if infection or structural abnormality is contributing to the symptoms. Additionally, your ear, nose and throat specialist may advise testing to determine the specific allergen that is causing discomfort. In some cases immunotherapy, which is a unique treatment because it induces the buildup of protective antibodies to specific allergens, or allergy shots may be recommended. If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to an allergy, start by visiting your ENT. Your ENT can help diagnose and treat your allergies, making this fall a more enjoyable season.
Dr. Don Beasley, ENT in Boise, is fully trained and experiences to provide patients with the best healthcare related to patients ear, nose and throat issues. Dr. Beasley provides quality care in all aspects of ear, nose and throat issues, including allergies, ear infections and sinus infections in Boise, among an array of other services and treatments.
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