Allergy Treatment in Fresno
At ENT Associates of Fresno, we specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of a wide range of allergies. Our mission is to improve your quality of life by addressing the root causes of your allergies and providing effective, personalized treatment plans. We understand the impact allergies can have on your daily life, and our dedicated team of experts is here to help you breathe easier and live healthier. Call our ent clinic in Fresno to schedule an appointment.
What are Allergies?
Allergies start when your immune system mistakes a normal, everyday substance for a dangerous intruder in your body. Your system responds by attacking the intruder, or allergen. The body will produce histamines, which create allergy symptoms.
Allergy Symptoms
Allergy symptoms can range from mild to severe and can produce minor irritation or result in anaphylactic shock, a life-threatening condition.
Some common symptoms of allergies include:
- Sneezing
- Wheezing
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Swelling
- Chest tightness
- Coughing
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Rash
- Itchy skin
Common Allergies We See
People are allergic to a variety of substances, but there are some common triggers:
- Seasonal Allergies: Reaction to environmental factors during specific times of the year
- Airborne Allergies: Pollen, animal dander, dust mites, and mold
- Insect Allergies: Bee stings and other insect bites
- Medication Allergies: Commonly seen with penicillin and penicillin-based antibiotics
- Skin Allergies: Latex, lotions, and other skin contact substances
- Food Allergies: Eggs, fish, milk, peanuts, shellfish, soy, tree nuts, and wheat
How to Test for Allergies
An accurate diagnosis is the first step towards managing your allergies effectively.
ENT Associates of Fresno offers a variety of allergy testing options, including:
- Skin Prick Testing: This test involves applying a small amount of allergen extract to your skin to identify specific allergens triggering your symptoms.
- Blood Tests: We perform comprehensive blood tests to measure your body’s immune response to allergens.
We will work with you to get you the answers you deserve. It can be frustrating to deal with the unknown, especially when you experience allergy symptoms.
How to Treat Allergies
Once we identify your allergies, ENT Associates of Fresno and our team will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan.
Treatment options for allergies include:
- Allergen Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots): This involves gradually exposing you to allergens to build tolerance over time.
- Medications: We may prescribe medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, or corticosteroids to manage your symptoms.
- Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT): Allergy drops or tablets placed under the tongue, providing an alternative to allergy shots.
- Biologic Therapies: Newer medications like omalizumab (Xolair) target specific pathways in the immune response, offering relief for severe asthma and chronic hives related to allergies.
Manage Your Allergies
ENT Associates of Fresno is here to provide you with the knowledge, resources, and personalized treatment plans you need to effectively manage your allergies. We provide guidance on allergen avoidance strategies to minimize your exposure to allergens at home, work, and in other environments.
Schedule Your Allergy Consultation Today
We understand the impact allergies can have on your daily life, and our dedicated team of experts is here to help you breathe easier and live healthier. Call our ent clinic in Fresno to schedule an appointment.