Common Allergies Symptoms and Effective Treatment Methods

The majority of these allergy impacts are short term and will dissipate when allergy season comes to an end, but that doesn’t mean that things don’t get difficult while allergy season is in full swing. One of the things that allergies can do is mess with your ear, nose and throat health. It’s important that you understand the impact that they can have so that you can properly combat this to the best of your ability going forward, and that’s what we’re going to be focusing on in this article. Want to know more talk with your ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist.

Can Give You a Sore Throat

The frequent coughing and sneezing that accompany allergies can strain your throat, potentially leading to soreness due to the harsh use. In such cases, it’s advisable to consider antihistamines to alleviate allergy symptoms, with the hope that the sore throat will also subside. Additionally, incorporating warm beverages into your routine can provide relief and soothe the discomfort you’re experiencing, making it a more manageable experience. Talk with your ENT doctor about other treatment options is antihistamines and warm beverages are not working.

Blocked Nose and Ears

One prevalent allergy symptom is nasal or ear congestion, which can be particularly uncomfortable but is a frequent occurrence among individuals who experience allergies. When faced with a blocked nose or ears, a practical approach is inhaling steam infused with menthol to facilitate clearance. This congestion typically results from the accumulation of various substances, and the steam effectively helps to dissolve these obstructions, ultimately restoring your normal breathing and hearing.

In cases of blocked ears, some individuals have discovered that yawning can be beneficial, as it can alleviate the pressure and pop the ears, offering potential relief. It’s a straightforward method worth attempting if you’re facing discomfort, providing an additional option for managing allergy-related congestion.

Too Much Mucus

A buildup of mucus is also extremely common when someone has allergies. The problem with this is that the more that it builds up, it can cause your nose to run and drip down the back of the throat which can cause issues like a sore throat, as well as other things. This is known as postnasal drip and can cause discomfort. When experiencing too much mucus, you can take various steps to alleviate it. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water can help thin out mucus, making it easier to clear. Using saline nasal sprays or irrigations can also aid in flushing out mucus and allergens from the nasal passages.

Additionally, consulting an ear, nose and throat specialist is advisable, especially if mucus production is persistent and bothersome. An ENT can provide a thorough evaluation, recommend tailored treatment options and help you manage your allergies more effectively, ultimately improving your overall comfort and well-being.

Ear Infections

Allergies can contribute to ear infections. When allergies trigger inflammation in the nasal passages and throat, this can lead to an accumulation of mucus and increased pressure in the eustachian tubes, which connect the ears to the throat. The resulting congestion can foster the growth of bacteria, potentially causing ear infections. Symptoms may include ear pain, hearing loss and a feeling of fullness in the ear.

Treatment options for allergy-related ear infections often encompass addressing both the allergies and the infection itself. This can involve allergy management strategies such as antihistamines, decongestants or allergy shots to reduce the allergic response. In cases of infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to combat bacterial growth. If the issue persists or becomes recurrent, an ENT specialist can provide a thorough evaluation and recommend more specialized treatments.

Sinus Pressure and Congestion

Sinus pressure and congestion are common issues often tied to allergies. Allergies can trigger the release of histamines in response to allergens, leading to inflamed and constricted nasal passages. This swelling can also affect the sinus lining, making mucus accumulation a problem, which results in that feeling of pressure in your sinus cavities. Moreover, the extra mucus produced in reaction to allergens can lead to congestion, causing difficulties in breathing through your nose.

Antihistamines are a solution for treating allergies, but if they are not working then you should talk with your ear, nose and throat specialist to see if there is anything else that can be done. Getting treatment is essential to avoid long term complications.

Interested in learning more about how allergies can impact your ear, nose and throat health? Get in touch with Mountain Ear, Nose & Throat Associates by calling us today at Sylva: 828-586-7474, Franklin: 828-524-5599, Murphy: 828-835-1014 and New Asheville: 828-458-8100. We look forward to hearing from you!