Is It Allergies or Something More? Here’s When to See an ENT Specialist

Summer is here, and many residents in the Clear Lake and the surrounding areas are finding themselves dealing with allergy symptoms. While allergies are often a normal occurrence during the warmer months, they can become severe and need to be addressed by an ENT specialist. We know your health is important here at Houston Physicians’ Hospital, so we’ve laid out some signs that mean it’s time to visit an ENT doctor for your allergies:

You Frequently Have Sinus Problems

If you often find yourself suffering from sinus problems such as sinus infections or severe sinus pain, it may be time to speak with a medical professional about the possibility of an ENT problem. The American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology states that those who have allergies are at a greater risk for infections and other problems with the sinuses (1).

OTC Treatments Have Not Worked

Typically, it is best to try OTC (over the counter) methods to treat allergies before speaking to an ENT specialist. In fact, the American Journal of Managed Care estimates that 57% of allergy sufferers are able to treat their allergies using OTC treatment methods (2). However, if you have tried different OTC medications to treat your allergies and still suffer from persistent symptoms, it can mean you need to speak with an ENT specialist.

Breathing is Extremely Difficult

While a stuffy nose is a common symptom of normal allergies, it shouldn’t cause breathing to become extremely difficult. If you suffer from breathing difficulties along with your allergies, you may have a condition called “allergic asthma.” According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, allergic asthma is a condition in which allergens trigger asthma symptoms, such as wheezing or difficulty breathing (3). Speak to a medical professional as quickly as possible if breathing is extremely difficult as a result of your allergies.

Your Symptoms Interfere with Your Daily Life

The National Sleep Foundation cites that allergy symptoms can make it difficult to sleep at night (4). If your allergy symptoms are getting in the way of your regular sleep cycle, you should seek treatment from an ENT specialist. Also consider whether your allergies affect any other aspects of your life, such as your exercise routine or your appetite. Allergy symptoms can be challenging to deal with, but if they are holding you back from your daily life, it’s time to seek treatment from a medical professional.

Allergies can hinder many people’s summer plans, but they shouldn’t control your life. For professional allergy management, give Houston Physicians’ Hospital a call at (281) 557-5620. We proudly offer expert ENT treatments in Clear Lake and the surrounding areas.