When you suffer from allergies, there are times when you should see an allergist, and there are times when you should see an ENT specialist. With Dr. James Maddox of James B. Maddox, MD PA, of Garland, TX, allergies are his specialty, and you can trust him to treat your symptoms.
When Should I See an ENT to Manage My Allergies?
Everyone knows an ENT treats the ear, nose, and throat. However, you may not know that they treat allergy symptoms as well. You want to see an ENT specialist if you experience the following allergy symptoms:
- Nasal congestion
- Sinus congestion
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Nasal breathing difficulties
- Raspy voice
- Hearing loss
Many of these symptoms are caused by allergens. So, because allergies directly affect the ear, nose, and throat, ENTs are offering allergy testing and treatment.
Benefits of Seeing an ENT For Your Allergies
With Dr. Maddox of Garland, TX, allergies are his expertise, and you want a doctor you can trust in your corner to receive the best treatment available. The goal of an ENT is to find the cause of your symptoms and treat it.
Treatment Options and Testing for Allergies
When your allergy symptoms are mild to moderate, many over-the-counter treatments and prescription medications effectively manage them. However, if more severe, you may need stronger treatment such as immunotherapy or injections.
Treatment options for allergies include:
- Nasal sprays: They are the most common and available OTC or with a prescription. Sprays contain steroids to relieve inflammation, antihistamines to block histamine effects, decongestants, and saline.
- Allergy medications: Includes antihistamines, decongestants, mast cell stabilizers (block histamine and leukotriene), steroids to reduce inflammation, and leukotriene modifiers that reduce inflammation and mucous production.
- Allergy shots: These provide immunotherapy by building up your immune system and giving in your skin's subcutaneous fat. Think of allergy shots like a vaccine for allergies that slowly build up your immunity over time.
- Immunotherapy: Doctors may prescribe anti-immunoglobulins via IV or injection to reduce the number of antibodies in your immune system that responds to an allergen.
How the doctor treats your allergy symptoms will vary depending on the severity of your symptoms.
If you suffer from allergies, it is time to make an appointment with your local ENT. With Dr. Maddox of James B. Maddox, MD PA of Garland, TX, allergies are his specialty, and you can expect exceptional care.