ENT Carolina Allergy Program
Mark E. Reiber, MD, FACS, FAAOA
Up to a fourth of all households are affected by allergies. Once considered just a nuisance, allergies can have a significant impact on quality of life. Worsening over time, allergies may progress to asthma, sinus and ear infection, sleep disturbances, and chronic headaches.
Billions are spent annually on doctor visits and medications, but despite this, surveys show patients are increasingly frustrated. All of this at a time when better treatment options are available than ever before. What is missing? Why are patients so frustrated?
The ENT Carolina approach is to test (Allergy Testing), accurately diagnose (What's the problem?) and then decide how to treat. We emphasize all three pillars of allergy treatment: avoidance measures (Environmental Control for Allergies), medications (Allergy Medication Overview) and desensitization (Immunotherapy). When necessary surgery can also correct nasal problems (Nasal/Sinus Surgery).
Wouldn't it be wonderful if you could just take a pill or a shot and never be sick again? Why put in all the time, money and effort to treat allergies if you are still going to get sick?
Well, those expectations are unrealistic. Upper respiratory problems like sinus infections are caused by several factors including colds and viruses. The average person will get 2 respiratory tract infections per year. If you are around children or deal with the public, you might even experience more.
So what can you reasonably expect from allergy management with immunotherapy. Patients often report a dramatic improvement in their quality of life. They have a decrease in sinus infections, nasal congestion, drainage, pressure and even headaches. Typically, they use less medication including recurrent antibiotics. Results can be seen in a matter of weeks and with completion of full course therapy, improvement are seen for years after stopping immunotherapy.
At ENT Carolina, we believe strongly in a partnership between patient and physician and encourage our patients to take an active role in their care.
View videos of ENT Carolina Allergy patients sharing their experiences.