What Your ENT specialists in Camarillo, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley and Oxnard want you to know

Allergies are your body’s response when it’s exposed to a foreign substance. The foreign substance called an allergen can be from plants, animals or foods. Most people won’t have a response to allergens, but for those who are sensitive, allergies can produce symptoms like rashes, coughing, sneezing, watery eyes and a variety of other issues. The ENT specialists at West Coast Ear Nose Throat Head and Neck Surgery want to help with your allergy symptoms.

Symptoms can cause problems with your sinuses, airways, skin and digestive system. Allergy symptoms can range from mild to severe. A severe reaction, called anaphylactic shock, can result in a blocked airway and an inability to breathe.

Allergies can cause symptoms all year long. If you are having symptoms in the spring or summer, you could have hay fever, called allergic rhinitis. It is an allergy to pollen.

Indoor allergies are common in the fall and winter when you spend more time inside. Some common indoor allergies include dust mites, mold and pet dander.

There are many common allergies to certain foods including peanuts and shellfish. Many food allergies can cause a severe response, like breathing difficulty.

Your ENT specialists in Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, Oxnard and Camarillo want you to know the first step in dealing with allergies is to find out what you are allergic to and limit your exposure to it. They can help with allergy testing, to determine what causes you symptoms.

When you find out what you are allergic to, there are several things you can do at home to limit your exposure. You can try:

• Hypoallergenic linens and pillowcases
• HEPA or allergy filters in your bedroom
• Vacuuming and dusting frequently
• Keeping pets out of your bedroom and off of your furniture
• Closing your doors and windows if you have seasonal allergies

You don’t have to deal with allergies alone. Your ENT specialists are experts at helping to alleviate allergy symptoms. In addition to allergy testing, they offer several effective treatments including allergy shots and sublingual drop therapy.

For more information on allergy testing and treatment, call your ENT specialists at West Coast Ear Nose Throat Head and Neck Surgery with offices in Camarillo, Oxnard, Simi Valley, and Thousand Oaks, CA. Call today and get some relief!