From allergic rhinitis and sinusitis to ear infections and nasal polyps, the ears, nose and throat (ENT) can experience a range of mild to severe health issues. In most cases, pediatric ENT services will return children to good health, providing fast treatment and ongoing management solutions. But what role can your Atlanta allergist play in treating many of these pediatric ENT issues?
How an Allergist Treats Pediatric ENT Issues
An ENT specialist treats various conditions, including performing surgeries on the ear, nose, throat and associated structures of the head and neck. However, for most children surgery won’t be necessary, as allergist-prescribed solutions could resolve the condition. Here are just some of the ENT issues that Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center treats.
Allergic Rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, is an immune system overreaction to breathing particles in the air. Symptoms typically affect the nose, mouth and throat areas, causing congestion and itching of the eyes, nose, mouth and throat. Allergists are well-suited to treating allergic rhinitis as they routinely perform allergy testing and develop treatment management plans for ongoing relief.
Sinusitis
Sinusitis is an inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses. For many people, allergies are the prime cause of sinusitis. And as we recently discussed, nasal allergies can be worse during the fall, potentially leading to recurring sinus inflammation. Just as with allergic rhinitis, identifying and treating the root cause of your sinusitis can remedy the issue.
Nasal Polyps
Having nasal polyps is another condition often related to allergies. These noncancerous growths in the nasal passages or sinuses often lead to congestion and sinus infections. While nasal polyps are actually more common in adults than children, parents should speak with an allergist if they are concerned. In most cases, medications such as corticosteroids will help resolve the issue. For severe cases, you may be referred to an ENT doctor.
Asthma
According to the CDC, 6.5% of U.S. children have asthma. Allergies are actually not the root cause of asthma, yet asthma symptoms are frequently triggered by exposure to an allergen. That’s why tackling the allergy itself may offer significant relief to the patient. As with all allergies, identifying the exact allergy triggers (rather than assuming) and developing a targeted treatment plan is the best long-term solution for children.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is one more highly effective treatment option that our allergists have at their disposal. Commonly called “allergy shots,” immunotherapy treatment (OIT) involves an allergist administering an allergen in increasing amounts over several months (sometimes over years, depending on the patient). And because OIT is one of the most effective nasal allergy treatments, children can experience better health and improved quality of life after building allergen tolerance.
Get Pediatric ENT Treatments in Atlanta Today
Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center diagnoses and treats a range of common pediatric ENT issues. If you are concerned about your child’s ENT health, visit us in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth or Johns Creek. Call (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment today.
