Deciding whether to consult an allergist or an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist can be a confusing topic. Especially because different types of allergies often lead to symptoms in the ear, nose and throat – the focus or specialty of an ENT.
While allergy season can be a tough time for allergy sufferers, various allergens also cause problems throughout the year. So how can Atlanta residents determine if they need an allergist or an ENT? First, it is important to understand the differences between the two fields.
Differences Between an Allergist and an ENT
An allergist is a specialist trained in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of allergies. Allergists can provide allergy testing, immunotherapy treatments, asthma care, holistic treatments and related assistance.
An ENT treats medical issues of the ear, nose and throat, along with the head and neck. Many of these conditions could require surgical treatments, such as corrections to cartilage or bone. An ENT will usually treat structural issues that require surgery – this differs from an allergist who specializes in diagnosing the allergen that is creating the inflammation or allergic reaction.
Should I See an Allergist or ENT for Allergies?
For a person without allergies – or who only experiences mild symptoms – the role of an allergist might be unclear. Many people don’t understand the complexity of diagnosing and treating allergies in children and adults. Our skilled immunologists can properly diagnose issues and provide various treatment options, including immune system desensitization to prevent dangerous allergic reactions.
The path to becoming an allergist is similar to that of other physicians working in the medical field. Typically, the process involves four years of undergraduate study, four years of medical school, then multiple years of residency alongside experienced doctors. This reveals the level of skill, experience and knowledge required to treat allergies successfully.
Similarly, becoming an ENT doctor requires many years of studying and residency, along with a final state exam. This period of study and work prepares an ENT for the situations they deal with on a daily basis. In some cases, an ENT doctor may choose to spend another one to two years training as an allergist. However, this specialization is often used to help patients struggling with a range of complex symptoms that extend beyond immune system response.
Allergies can affect many areas of the body, including the eyes, nose, ears, mouth, stomach, lungs and sinuses. For the vast majority of people experiencing allergic reactions, an allergist should always be the first point of contact. An allergist is adept at identifying the cause of an immune system response and allergic reaction, and developing a solution that reduces or removes any threat to the individual.
Signs You Should See an Allergist
For some people, the triggers of an allergy may be clear. For example, eating certain foods such as peanuts, tree nuts or shellfish might provoke an immediate allergic response. The lips and mouth may swell and tingle, plus bloating or a skin rash could also appear. In other cases, dust allergies or other environmental issues can be more difficult to pinpoint. Pay attention to some of the following symptoms.
- A runny nose
- Itchy throat
- Shortness of breath
- Eye-watering and redness
- Sinus infections or pain
- Swollen lips or tongue
- Skin rash
These types of symptoms suggest you should speak to an allergist instead of an ENT. Keep in mind, some symptoms might require the help of an ENT doctor.
- Ear infections
- Chronic sinusitis
- Continuous pain of the ear, nose, or throat
- Deviated septum
- Persistent tinnitus or ringing in the ears
If you believe your issues are related to allergies or asthma, a consultation with an allergist is an efficient way to determine the nature of the problem. A discussion about your symptoms and an allergy test will get to the root of the issue.
Our doctors work closely with ENTs, so if it’s determined that any of the symptoms listed here require surgical intervention, we can work with and/or refer you to a local ENT. At Chacko Allergy, the patient’s needs will always come first.
Helping Atlanta Residents Deal With Allergies Is Top of Mind
If you are concerned about an allergy and require testing or treatment, Chacko Allergy is here to help. We have locations in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth and Johns Creek. Get in touch today at 678-668-4688.
