Atlanta Allergy, Asthma and Sinus FAQ

When you have questions and concerns about allergies, asthma or sinus problems, the team at Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center is ready to help. We can guide you through the process from comprehensive allergy testing to allergy treatment and management. Our goal is to help you live life to the fullest, unhindered by annoying common allergies.

Top Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Questions

When you’re ready to regain control of your life, Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center can answer any questions you may have. We specialize in comprehensive allergy and sinus care, including food allergy treatments like oral immunotherapy.

Allergies can affect people of all ages and the causes can include seasonal pollen, food, pets and more. Here are some of the most common questions we get asked about allergies.

How common are food allergies in the United States?

An estimated 32 million Americans suffer from food allergies. Approximately 5.6 million children have a food allergy, and 40% of these kids are allergic to more than one food. The CDC has also reported that food allergies in children have increased in prevalence since 1997.

What are the common symptoms of a food allergy?

Common signs of a food allergy are a skin rash, hives, swelling of lips, tongue and throat, breathing problems, wheezing, a runny nose, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and lightheadedness. Symptoms usually appear between a few minutes and a couple of hours after consuming the food.

Can food allergies be outgrown?

Many food allergies will be outgrown by a percentage of children by the time they reach their teenage and adult years. Milk and egg allergies are more likely to be outgrown, while peanut, tree nut, fish and shellfish allergies are less likely to be outgrown without treatment.

Can allergen immunotherapy treat a food allergy?

Oral immunotherapy treatment (OIT) is an effective method for preventing food allergy symptoms and anaphylaxis. Requiring a long-term commitment of at least six months, the process involves consuming the trigger food in manageable doses. Dosage levels are increased slowly, allowing the immune system to build a tolerance to the presence of the allergen. Note that OIT should only be implemented by an allergy/immunology specialist.

What is cross-reactivity in food allergies?

Cross-reactivity can occur when a sensitive person encounters food proteins that are similar in structure to those found in foods they’re allergic to. These protein similarities confuse the immune system and an allergic reaction may result. For example, many people that are allergic to birch pollen can also react to apples (as the proteins are similar). Also, for those with a tree nut allergy, sometimes cross-reactivity in other nuts can be an issue.

How can I tell if my child has allergic rhinitis (hay fever)?

The first signs of allergic rhinitis are usually sneezing and a runny nose caused by inflammation. Your child may also have post-nasal drip leading to a sore throat, itchy eyes and possibly some pain in their ears. For a full diagnosis, your allergist will conduct allergy testing.

How can I differentiate between a cold and allergic rhinitis?

Colds are caused by viruses and typically last 7–10 days. Symptoms include a runny nose, sore throat, body aches and sometimes fever. In contrast, allergic rhinitis symptoms persist as long as allergen exposure continues. The symptoms include sneezing, itchy eyes and clear nasal discharge without fever or body aches.

What are allergy shots?

Allergy shots (also called immunotherapy) involve injecting gradually increasing doses of allergens into a patient’s body. Treatment typically begins with weekly injections and tapers off to monthly maintenance shots. Over time, the immune system builds tolerance and reduces allergy symptoms.

Can allergies be cured?

Currently, there is no permanent cure for an allergy. However, it is possible to manage allergies with the guidance of an allergist. Treatments such as medications, allergy shots or oral immunotherapy offer effective, long-term relief from allergic reactions and the risk of anaphylaxis.

What steps can I take to prevent anaphylaxis?

If you have previously had a severe allergic reaction, you should avoid contact with the allergen and speak to an allergist. Subsequently, you should keep an anaphylaxis medication kit with you, including an epinephrine auto-injector. Your allergy doctor may recommend immunotherapy as an approach for building tolerance to the allergen.

What time of year does oral allergy syndrome occur?

Depending on the type of pollen you are allergic to, oral allergy syndrome (OAS) can occur in many months of the year. Birch pollen is most common in the spring, while grass pollen is the most common cause of OAS, and is prevalent during summer. During late summer and into fall you may experience a reaction to ragweed – and a plant called mugwort is responsible for many OAS reactions throughout the fall.

What are the most common allergies affecting children?

The most common types of allergies for children are allergic rhinitis (hay fever), peanuts and milk. However, children can experience an allergic reaction to many substances, including pet dander, dust and many different foods.

What are the benefits of aspirin desensitization?

Some benefits of aspirin desensitization include reduced risk of anaphylaxis, an improvement in asthma symptoms, better nasal and sinus health – and the ability to take aspirin for other health issues. If you have an aspirin allergy, contact your allergist to see if desensitization is recommended.

What is the process for allergy testing?

Allergy testing typically involves skin prick tests, blood tests or patch tests. Skin prick tests introduce small amounts of allergens into the top layer of the patient’s skin (any reactions are observed and recorded). Blood tests measure specific allergen antibodies found in the blood, while patch tests expose the skin to allergens for 48 hours to assess delayed reactions.

Can allergies cause a sinus infection?

Yes. Allergens like dust, mold and pollen may cause inflammation of the nose and sinuses. The resulting swelling prevents mucus from draining, potentially leading to a sinus infection. While sinusitis is common and usually clears within 7–10 days, recurring infections can suggest an allergy that requires treatment.

What are some natural remedies for allergy relief?

Natural remedies for allergy relief include nasal saline rinses, butterbur extract, eucalyptus oil – and maintaining a healthy diet rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory foods. However, consult your allergist before trying any new treatments. Your allergist will likely conduct professional allergy testing and look at your medical history.

How can I allergy-proof my home?

To allergy-proof your home, vacuum and dust regularly, use HEPA air filters, cover mattresses and pillows in allergen-proof covers, keep windows closed during pollen season. You can also bathe pets to minimize dander exposure.

What is the difference between allergic asthma and non-allergic asthma?

Both types of asthma involve airway inflammation and constriction that leads to breathing difficulties. Allergic asthma is triggered by allergens such as pollen, pet dander or mold, whereas factors like exercise, cold air, or respiratory infections can trigger non-allergic asthma.

Contact Us for Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Care

For diagnosis and treatment of allergy, asthma and sinus issues, contact Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center today. Our allergy treatment centers are located in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth and Johns Creek. For an appointment, call (678) 668-4688 or contact us online.