Many people suffer from seasonal allergies, which can range from mild to debilitating. At Virginia Ear Nose and Throat, we know just how disruptive they can be to daily life. We are proud to offer allergy testing and allergy treatment to help our patients understand the cause of, and find relief from, bothersome symptoms.
What Are Allergies?
Our team specializes in a variety of common conditions and complaints. At Virginia Ear Nose and Throat, the most common allergy that we treat is Allergic Rhinitis, also known as hay fever. People with Allergic Rhinitis experience a reaction in the form of chronic respiratory inflammation.
As opposed to reactions triggered by food, people with this type experience an exacerbation of symptoms when exposed to inhaled allergens such as grass, tree and ragweed pollen, dust, mold, pet danders and dust mites.
In addition to these symptoms, patients may also experience:
Allergy Symptoms
Patients with Allergic Rhinitis can suffer from a range of respiratory symptoms. Some people experience symptoms year-long and others experience them on a more seasonal basis. Symptoms include:
Allergic Rhinitis can also lead to serious conditions such as asthma, eustachian tube dysfunction, ear infections, laryngitis, eczema, sleep apnea and recurring sinus infections. If you experience any of these symptoms, talk to us about scheduling allergy testing. We want to help you feel good all year long!
Allergy Testing
If you’re experiencing allergy symptoms, your provider will review your medical history and perform a physical exam. If allergies are suspected, testing will be recommended to confirm the cause.
Skin testing is the gold standard for diagnosing allergies and is conveniently performed in our office. However, if you’re not a good candidate for skin testing, your provider may recommend an out-of-office blood test instead.
How skin testing works:
Diagnosis for inner ear disorders include testing head movements and visual testing, as inner ear conditions can impact gaze stability. Our team will also review your symptom patterns, including how frequently you experience episodes of vertigo and dizziness, how long each episode lasts and the symptoms of these episodes. If your provider suspects that you may be suffering from BPPV, they may utilize infrared goggles to see eye movements during positional testing.
The presence and size of a wheal help determine which allergens trigger your symptoms and how severe your reactions may be.
Allergy Treatment and Immunotherapy
After reviewing your allergy test results, your provider will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan. Some patients find relief through over-the-counter medications, while others with persistent symptoms benefit from immunotherapy, the only scientifically proven way to reduce your body’s allergic response over time.
Types of Immunotherapy
At Virginia Ear Nose and Throat, we offer several safe and effective forms of immunotherapy to treat chronic allergic rhinitis. Your provider will determine which option best fits your needs.
Allergy Shots (Subcutaneous Immunotherapy)
Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT Drops)
Oral Tablet Immunotherapy (SLIT Tablets)
Safety and Follow-Up Care
While undergoing immunotherapy, regular follow-up visits are essential. During these checkups, your provider will:
All patients receiving immunotherapy are provided with an epinephrine autoinjector (EpiPen) for emergency use, though severe reactions are rare. Our experienced team will also show you how to use your EpiPen safely and confidently.
Find Relief and Take Control of Your Allergies in Richmond, VA
Living with constant sneezing, congestion, or itchy eyes can make everyday life challenging, but you don’t have to suffer through allergy season. At Virginia Ear Nose and Throat, our experienced providers offer personalized allergy testing and advanced immunotherapy treatments designed to target the root cause of your symptoms, not just the surface. With our safe, effective options and ongoing care, you can finally enjoy lasting relief and breathe easier all year long.
Call us today at (804) 484-3700 to schedule your allergy evaluation and start your path to a healthier, symptom-free life.