Allergy Treatment and Care

Common Symptoms 

• Constant stuffy or runny nose
• Sneezing fits, especially in the morning
• Itchy nose, eyes, or throat
• Post-nasal drip causing throat clearing
• Chronic cough, especially at night
• Sinus pressure without fever
• Ear fullness or popping

If these symptoms are affecting your daily life, are not improving with over-the-counter medicines, or are leading to frequent sinus infections, it is a good time to schedule an appointment.

Seasonal vs. Year-Round Allergies

Seasonal allergies happen at the same time each year and are often caused by tree, grass, or weed pollen.

Year-round allergies are caused by indoor allergens like dust mites, pet dander, mould, or cockroach particles.

Nose and Sinus Problems

Allergies can lead to swollen nasal passages (Allergic Rhinitis), long-lasting sinus infections (Chronic Sinusitis), small growths called nasal polyps, and mucus running down your throat (Post-nasal Drip).

Throat Issues

Constant drainage from post-nasal drip can cause chronic throat clearing, a sore throat, a cough that is often worse at night, and voice hoarseness.

Ear Problems

Allergies can cause your ears to feel plugged or full, and can sometimes lead to temporary hearing loss from fluid buildup. They can also make ear infections more common by causing the tubes that connect the ears to the throat to swell.

Your Consultation

Your first visit is a comprehensive evaluation to get a clear picture of your health. We will review your medical history and symptoms, perform a physical examination of your nose, throat, and ears, and discuss if skin testing or blood testing is needed.

How to Prepare for Your Visit

• Continue taking your nasal sprays and other non-antihistamine medications.
• Bring a list of your current medications, any previous allergy test results, and a diary of your symptoms if you have one.

Managing Your Environment and Allergens

A key part of treatment is reducing your exposure to allergens.

• In the Bedroom: Use allergen-proof covers for your mattress and pillows and wash bedding weekly in hot water. An HEPA air purifier can also significantly reduce airborne allergens.
• Around the House: Keep indoor humidity below 50% to discourage mould and dust mites. Vacuum weekly with a vacuum that has a HEPA filter and consider having air ducts cleaned annually.
• Pollen and Outdoor Allergens: Keep windows in your home and car closed during high pollen seasons. Shower and change your clothes after spending time outdoors to remove pollen.

Medications

We will discuss several options to find the medication that best suits your symptoms and lifestyle.

• Over-the-Counter Options: These include non-drowsy antihistamines like Loratadine and Fexofenadine, or stronger-effect options like Cetirizine. Saline nasal rinses are safe for daily use, but nasal decongestants should only be used for a maximum of three days.
• Prescription Treatments: Nasal corticosteroid sprays (e.g., fluticasone, mometasone) are the most effective treatment for nasal symptoms and are safe for long-term use under supervision.

Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots and Drops)

Immunotherapy is a long-term treatment that trains your immune system to tolerate allergens, reducing your symptoms over time.

• How it Works: The treatment involves a "build-up phase" of 3-6 months with weekly injections of increasing doses, followed by a "maintenance phase" of 3-5 years with monthly shots.
• Success Rates: Clinical studies show an 85-95% improvement in allergy symptoms. Immunotherapy can also prevent new allergies from developing and reduce the risk of asthma in children.
• Sublingual Immunotherapy: For those who cannot do shots, under-the-tongue drops or tablets are a safe and effective alternative that can be taken at home.

When not managed properly, allergies can lead to other health issues.

• Chronic Sinusitis: Persistent inflammation can cause sinus infections that keep coming back, leading to facial pain and a reduced sense of smell.
• Asthma Development: Allergies are a major risk factor for developing asthma, which can cause wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing.
• Sleep Problems: Chronic nasal congestion is a common cause of snoring, restless sleep, and daytime fatigue.
• Quality of Life Issues: The constant burden of symptoms can lead to missing work or school and avoiding social and outdoor activities.