Allergies
Allergies in Carmel, IN
Allergies are a common concern for many patients. This is especially true during the spring when many people who have allergies often feel the strongest reaction to the allergies. However, Dr. Robert Youkilis, Dr. Robert Beach, and Dr. Seth Bruggers are committed to providing you with the treatment that you need for your allergies. In fact, Northside ENT even includes an internal allergy department in order to help patients who are dealing with ailments related to their allergies. We can also run allergy tests in addition to treating your allergies in various ways. One method of allergy testing involves taking a sample of your blood.
Learn More About Allergies
Even if you have allergies, there is a great deal of information about allergies that you may not know. One term you may have heard from doctors is allergic rhinitis. This is less complicated than it sounds and it happens when substances that cause allergies reach your nose, in addition to either your throat, eyes, ears, throat, or sinuses. As you likely know, the proper name for these substances is allergens. There are many different kinds of allergens, but some common allergens include dust, molds, animal dander, and pollens. Some allergens exist only during particular seasons, while some exist all year long.
If you have an allergic reaction to a seasonal allergen, then you have what is called hay fever or seasonal allergic rhinitis. However, if your allergies are due to an allergen that is around all year long, you have perennial allergic rhinitis. Biologically, an allergic reaction happens when allergens reach your nose's and sinuses' lining tissues, and nose cells release histamine, a chemical. This chemical, histamine, is what makes the lining of your nose itch, swell, and creates an excessive amount of mucus.
Some common symptoms of an allergic reaction include:
- Congestion in your nose
- Congestion in your head
- Sneezing
- Runny, itchy nose
However, these are not all the symptoms you may experience. You might feel lethargic or fatigued, in addition to feeling like your throat is itchy. Some of the excess mucus may also drain out of your nose, as well.
How Does a Doctor Diagnose Allergic Rhinitis?
As with any health issue, your doctor has to diagnose you before they can begin your treatment. Commonly, however, your doctor will talk to you about your family history, your medical history, and the symptoms you are experiencing. It is also worth noting that your doctor may have to investigate a bit before they figure out what you are allergic to exactly.