Allergy Testing & Treatment

We provide outstanding care for patients with symptoms related to allergies. Our offices are fully equipped to deliver the most comprehensive exams and allergy testing. We use nationally recognized and proven techniques to offer you answers and relief. 

An Expert ENT Team of Specialists 

You will find care from trained and board-certified nasal allergy specialists. For decades, we have provided families with allergy testing and medical management of sinus and allergy symptoms. 

Personalized Support from Our Allergy Coordinators 

Our allergy technicians coordinate your care plan and help you schedule appointments at any of our convenient locations throughout Greater Cincinnati. We take a personalized approach to meet your needs. 

Allergy Screening & Diagnosis

A complete otolaryngology exam helps detect whether your symptoms may be caused by allergies. During your first visit, a doctor will evaluate your medical history and perform a physical exam based on your symptoms. The physical may include visual inspection of your oral (mouth) and nasal (nose) cavities, neck, throat and tongue using a small mirror and/or light. 

Proven Combined Testing Method for Accuracy 

We combine two screening tests: the percutaneous multi-test and the intradermal dilutional test. The American Academy of Otolaryngic Allergy <external link, open in new tab> recommends these methods. The blended method of two testing techniques provides accurate results with minimal discomfort and increased safety for you.             

ImmunoCAP Testing 

When needed, we offer a third testing method, ImmunoCAP, to discover other immunoglobulin E allergies. Immunoglobulin E is one of the five subclasses of antibodies, or proteins in your body. Antibodies attack bacteria, viruses and allergens usually found in your lungs, skin and mucous membranes. 

Allergy Treatments

Medications can effectively manage chronic allergies and recurrent exposure to allergens (pollen, dust mites, pet dander, etc.). However, there is still no known treatment for food allergies. 

We’ll personalize a treatment plan for your allergies based on the severity and your triggers. At The Christ Hospital, you have access to a range of treatment options.

Antihistamines & Nasal Steroids             

Oral antihistamines are available without a prescription (over the counter). Prescription nasal steroids are very effective against allergy symptoms. Nasal steroids work by a different mechanism than antihistamines. We often prescribe the two together to reduce allergy symptoms.

Topical antihistamines require a prescription. They have a great effect on allergies. And you can use them for the constant, daily runny nose that often occurs with aging. 

Don’t stop your allergy medications when you feel better. Usually, your symptoms will return if you’re still exposed to the allergen. Think of these medications as chronic (long-term) control and take them daily for the best results. Call us with any questions or before you stop any allergy medications we’ve prescribed. 

Injection Immunotherapy & Oral Drops 

Allergy drops placed under your tongue replace traditional allergy injections. Both modes of therapy work by changing your immune system. The goal is to reduce your sensitivity to the allergen so that you can better tolerate exposure. Allergy testing shows which agents are reactive and at what level to begin a safe course of desensitizing treatment.

Allergy injections 

Injection immunotherapy is the traditional allergy shot therapy. It adapts your immune system so you can tolerate exposure to environmental allergens. After allergy testing, we develop a vial of medication specifically prepared for you. It’s based on both your type of allergen and level of sensitivity

We give you test doses in our office to monitor your reaction. We’ll gradually increase the dose as our allergy coordinator carefully observes you. We always give allergy injections in an office setting under the supervision of a physician, nurse practitioner or physician assistant. You’ll receive the first dose in our office. For your convenience, we can set up future treatments for you at any of our ENT practices or at your primary care doctor’s office.

Allergy drops 

Allergy drops (sublingual immunotherapy) placed under your tongue are safe and effective. After allergy testing confirms which agents you are sensitive to, our allergy coordinator prepares your starting solution. We increase the dose on later mixes until we reach an ideal amount to control your allergy.

Reactions to the allergy drop mixture are less common than allergy shots. You can safely take your allergy drops at home. Allergy drops are a more convenient and less expensive treatment than injections. 

Avoiding Your Allergens 

Once we determine you are allergic to a particular item, it is best to avoid contact with it. This is especially important if your reaction is severe and causes swelling of the face, tongue or throat. We often see this type of reaction with food allergies, such as nuts and shellfish, and insect venom exposure, such as a bee sting.

Pollen and other environmental exposures rarely cause severe and life-threatening reactions. They often cause coughing, asthma, a runny nose and congestion. Avoiding what you’re allergic to in the environment is the best way to manage your allergies.