What is an allergy?

An allergy is an abnormal reaction to ordinarily harmless substances. These sensitizing substances, called allergens, may be inhaled, swallowed, or come into contact with the skin. Allergies may cause or contribute to nasal blockage, nasal draining, chest congestion, head aches, sinusitis, itchy eyes, stomach disorders, migraines, and various skin diseases as well as numerous other problems.

How do we find out what I am allergic to?

Allergy skin tests are the most accurate diagnostic tests used by Allergists. These tests determine the presence of allergic antibodies to different pollens and molds. After a complete history and evaluation by the physician, he may recommend testing to determine what you are allergic to. This is done by a series of prick punctures on the back, followed by more comprehensive testing on the upper arm with the allergens to which you are most sensitive.

What are "allergy shots"?

An "allergy shot" contains a very small amount of the substance to which you have reacted. This usually includes pollens from weeds, grasses and trees, molds, house dust and dust mites.

How do allergy shots work?

When you receive a small injection of the allergen to which you are sensitive, your body will make protective antibodies against the allergen. These antibodies will help block the effects of the allergen when you come in contact with it. The antibodies will block your reaction so that your symptoms will become less severe or disappear over time.

Are allergy shots safe?

Allergy shots are very safe. Because you are receiving a small amount of the substance to which you are allergic, an allergic reaction could occur from the shot. One kind of reactions is a slight swelling of the site where the shot is administered. Other reactions include mild flare of your allergic symptoms. Rarely, a person can have severe reactions. This type of reaction is called anaphylaxis and can be very serious. For this reason we recommend that you wait in our office for 20 to 30 minutes after receiving an injection. We do not recommend giving your injections at home.

How long will I have to take shots?

That is decided on an individual basis with you and your doctor. Usually, immunotherapy is recommended for three to five years for best results. While you may begin to feel better after only one or two injections, it usually takes four to six months of immunotherapy before you notice relief of your symptoms.

Why can't I just take medicine?

Antihistamines are for short-term use. They loose their effectiveness if taken for long term. They don't control the more severe clinical mediators of allergy. Allergies are easier to control with allergy vaccine than three or four expensive medications that give only partial control.

Can you help my sinus problems?

Sinus problems are caused by allergy plus many other factors in most cases. Early treatment of allergy can frequently prevent damage to sinuses. With allergy management, significant improvement is expected even in chronic and severe sinusitis.

What is the difference between asthma and allergies?

Asthma is obstruction and inflammation of air flow in the bronchial tubes. It is reversible. Allergies are just one of the factors that can trigger asthma. Not all people with asthma are allergic and many people have allergies but do not have asthma.

Will we have to get rid of our pets?

Pet allergy responds very well to allergy management. Severe animal allergy even responds to treatment if exposures are limited. Heavy exposure to animal dander indoors adds significant risk to treatment.