Allergy
If you are an allergy sufferer, you’re not alone. Studies have shown that nearly 20% of people in the United States have some type of allergy. Inhalant allergies are caused by many different things, from animal hair and dander to dust particles or pollens. Symptoms range from sneezing and itchy eyes to coughing and hives.
Dr. Brian Weeks will examine your case and determine if further allergy testing is needed. Allergies are treatable with the wide variety of treatment options available today. Simple medications such as nasal sprays or decongestants may be effective in relieving your symptoms or may be used in conjunction with immunotherapy (allergy shots). Allergy shots are a series of weekly injections over several months that aid in desensitizing your body to the materials to which you have abnormal reactions. Immunotherapy works best with inhalant allergies.
Allergies can also trigger sinus infections. Sinusitis, an inflammation of the sinuses, causes a blockage in the sinus openings, which leads to poor drainage in these areas. Pain and infection can follow and possibly cause postnasal drip.
Decongestants can help alleviate the symptoms, but it’s important to be seen by Dr. Brian Weeks before an infection sets in. If the sinuses become infected, Dr. Brian Weeks may prescribe an antibiotic to aid in the healing process and encourage better drainage of your sinuses.
