Why Otolaryngic Allergy?

Otolaryngic Allergy is a branch of medicine that deals specifically with allergies of the ears, nose, and throat. Otolaryngic Allergists are doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating disorders of the upper respiratory tract, (ears, nose, and throat, etc.) caused by allergic conditions. Because Otolaryngic Allergists are ENTs/Head and Neck surgeons they can also efficiently diagnosis and treat other non-allergic conditions of the ears, nose and throat. Half of the problems that ENTs encounter are caused, either directly or indirectly, by allergies. Our physicians have treated many people with symptoms similar to yours and know that allergies can appear in forms other than just sneezing and watery eyes. Otolaryngic Allergists use methods that have been shown to not only identify specific allergies, but also to help patients achieve quick and effective control of their allergies. ENTs are a one-stop source of help for patients suffering from all types of disorders of the head and neck.

HELPFUL LINKS:

Allergies Q & A : American Academy of Otolaryngic Allergy (www. aaoaf.org)
Resources : American Academy of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery (www.entnet.org)

Services & Treatment

Millions of Americans suffer from seasonal allergies. For some people allergy symptoms occur all year long. South Texas, in particular, is a haven for outdoor allergens. The usual pollen season in San Antonio for trees is during spring months; grasses in the summer; and weeds in the fall of the year. Mold and spores multiply whenever it rains, and Mountain Cedar pollen is heavy during winter months.

Allergies can cause a variety of symptoms. Nasal allergies are the most common and can cause sneezing; itchy nose, eyes, ears, and throat; clear, runny nasal discharge; stuffed-up nose; and red, watery eyes. However, many people do not realize that nasal allergies can also cause sore throats, coughing, tiredness, stomachaches, headaches, and tenderness in your cheeks and forehead.

Our physicians can test and develop treatment plans to keep allergy patients' symptoms under control. Treatment strategies include:

• Patient education on how to avoid or eliminate allergens through environmental control
• Prescription drugs for allergies – Antihistamines, Decongestants, Corticosteroids,
     Cromolyn Sodium Sprays and Anticholinergic Nasal Sprays
• Immunotherapy (allergy shots) for both inhalant and food allergens

 

We offer personalized services to our patients and begin by taking a detailed history evaluation of our patients’ physical symptoms and living habits. This is followed by a physical examination by one of our physicians. Our allergy department consists of an all-RN staff that has been specially trained in caring for the allergic patient.

Patient Allergy History Questionnaire

Allergy Testing

A number of methods are in use today to identify specific allergens. However, they all fall into one or two basic types:

• Skin testing
• Test performed on the patient’s blood

Important Medication Instructions

You must NOT take any antihistamines for at least one week before your allergy test. Antihistamines are allergy relief medications and will interfere with the results of your skin testing. Antihistamines are available over-the-counter and by prescription. Please check the list below before taking any medications.

Please avoid the following medications that are sold by prescription or over-the-counter:

• Over-the-counter sleep aids
• Appetite suppressant/diet medications
• Medications with the words “allergy relief” or “PM” such as:
     Tylenol® PM, Tylenol® Sinus and Allergy, Excedrin® PM

Please notify your ENT physician or allergy nurse if you are taking any steroids, anti-depressants, or high blood pressure medications.

You may continue to take all other medications you have been taking including:

• Sudafed® or pseudoephedrine (as long as there is no history of high blood pressure)
• Steroid nasal sprays (Flonase®, Rhinocort®, Nasonex®, Nasacort®, Nasarel®, etc.)
• Guaifenesin (Humibid®, Robitussin®, Liquibid, Profen II Forte®, Duratuss™, Mucinex)
• Pain medications – OTC and Prescription – (Tylenol/Acetaminophen, Excedrin, Aleve,
     Advil/Ibuprofen/Motrin, Aspirin)

 

On the day of your test please:

• Allow at least 1 to 1 ½ hour(s) for the test.
• Eat breakfast or lunch prior to your testing appointment.
• Wear a comfortable sleeveless or loose knit short sleeve shirt.
     Testing is done on the upper outer arms.

 

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