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Advanced Specialty Associates
Phone: (218) 454-8888
Fax: (888) 835-7231

Allergies

Otolaryngology & Facial Plastic Surgery located in Baxter and The Village, St. Paul, MN

Allergies

Allergies services offered in Baxter and Mendota Heights, MN

Finding an allergy treatment that relieves your symptoms can improve your quality of life. At Advanced Specialty Associates in Mendota Heights and Baxter, Minnesota, the otolaryngology and facial plastic surgery specialists strive to provide patients with the individualized care they deserve. The practice offers a wide range of conventional and innovative allergy treatments, including sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT). Call your nearest location today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about allergies.

Allergies Q&A


What are allergies?

Allergies are overreactions from your immune system. Your immune system is your body’s natural defender. When you come in contact with harmful substances, it releases antibodies to protect you. These proteins are helpful when you’re in danger of infection, but they release chemicals called histamines when exposed to an allergen.

 

This reaction increases blood flow and triggers inflammation, which can lead to symptoms such as swelling, itching skin, and hives.

Are there different types of allergies?

There are several different types of allergies, including:

Hay fever

Also called allergic rhinitis, hay fever is a seasonal allergy that causes red, watery, itchy eyes, coughing, and sneezing. Pollen, fungi, and molds can trigger hay fever symptoms.

Latex

Latex is a rubbery material that can cause skin rashes and hives. Some people even experience throat swelling and difficulty breathing when they come in contact with latex.

Food

You can be allergic to any type of food, but soy, nut, and dairy allergies are most common in children and adults. If you have a food allergy, you may experience itching or tingling in your mouth, hives, facial swelling, or shortness of breath.

Insect

Insect allergies are usually the result of stings or bites. Redness, swelling, and itching are telltale signs of an insect allergy.

 

The team at Advanced Specialty Associates performs the appropriate testing to diagnose your allergy.

What are the signs of allergies?

Every allergy causes different symptoms, but common signs include:

 

  • Sneezing
  • Runny nose
  • Postnasal drip
  • Nasal congestion
  • Itchy, red eyes
  • Hives
  • Wheezing
  • Skin rashes

 

Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening allergic reaction that requires prompt treatment. It can lead to shortness of breath, swelling, and even loss of consciousness.

How are allergies diagnosed?

The team at Advanced Specialty Associates performs comprehensive allergy testing. Along with skin prick tests, which involve penetrating the skin with specific allergens, the team offers blood tests to identify your sensitivities. Allergy testing helps your specialist target the appropriate treatment for you.

What are the treatments for allergies?

Advanced Specialty Associates provides advanced allergy treatments, such as:

Sublingual immunotherapy

Sublingual immunotherapy, also known as allergy drops or SLIT, gradually builds your body’s tolerance to the substance causing your allergies. The team uses the Allergychoices® protocol, which includes only allergen antigens you’re allergic to.

Multi-allergen inhalant threshold dosing

Multi-allergen inhalant threshold dosing is a form of SLIT that delivers a precise amount of antigen. One bottle lasts 90 days.

 

Call Advanced Specialty Associates today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about allergies.