Diagnosing Your Allergies

Your diagnosis is personalized

The right treatment for chronic sinusitis is like a new lease on life. Because sinus infections can result from a combination of many conditions, exams always start with a medical history and physical exam.

Additional tests may be necessary to get to the root cause of your sinus blockage. Every patient is unique. So, your diagnosis is personalized based on your symptoms, health and history.

Here are some of the tests that you may need:

• Medical History: Allergies have a tendency to run in families, so there will be questions about relatives who have allergies. Previous injuries and childhood breathing problems can play a role in sinus issues. Jot down what you know and can remember about your breathing problems to help the doctor pinpoint the cause.
• Physical Exam: Your ENT physician looks for visible blockage in your nose, throat and sinuses.
• Imaging: X-rays are helpful to identify whether adenoid tissue enlargement, polyps or allergies cause your stuffy nose.
• Blood Tests: Your blood may be tested for the presence of antibodies that combat certain suspected allergens. This can help determine the severity of your allergy.
• Allergy Tests: A skin test may be used to identify your allergy triggers. During this test, your skin is lightly scratched with different allergens while you are monitored for skin reactions. The scratch test is the most common. Your doctor will discuss other types of skin test s if required for your diagnosis.

Managing Allergy Symptoms

If allergies are contributing to your sinus symptoms, treatment begins with identifying and reducing exposure to your triggers whenever possible. Your treatment plan may include one or more approaches based on your symptoms and medical history.

• Frequent vacuuming, HEPA filtration systems and keeping pets out of bedrooms may help reduce exposure to pet allergens.
• Limiting outdoor exposure during periods of high pollen counts may help reduce seasonal allergy symptoms.
• Over-the-counter and prescription medications, including nasal sprays and antihistamines, may provide symptom relief.
• Allergy shots (immunotherapy) may be recommended when symptoms are difficult to control with medications alone.
• For some patients, treating chronic sinus problems may help improve allergy-related symptoms.