Tag: Allergies

What is an allergy test and what does it tell us
Allergy tests play a crucial role in identifying and managing allergic reactions, providing individuals with valuable insight into their body’s immune responses. According to White-Wilson Certified Physician Assistant Jennifer Bendokas, an experienced Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist, these tests are pivotal in uncovering potential allergens that may be triggering various symptoms.

What is an Allergy Test?

An allergy test is a diagnostic procedure designed to identify specific substances, known as allergens, that provoke an immune response in the body. There are various types of allergy tests, with the two most common being skin tests and blood tests.
- Skin Tests: Skin tests involve introducing a small amount of allergen into the skin to observe the body’s reaction. This can be done through pricking the skin (skin prick test) or injecting a tiny amount under the skin (intradermal test). Reactions, such as redness or swelling, indicate an allergy.
- Blood Tests: Blood tests, like the specific IgE test, measure the presence of antibodies (immunoglobulin E or IgE) in the blood in response to specific allergens. A higher level of IgE antibodies suggests an allergic reaction.
“Conducting an allergy test is extremely useful in pinpointing the root cause of allergic symptoms for a patient,” elaborates PA Bendokas. “Before I can create a targeted and effective treatment plan, I need to know what specifically you are allergic to. The allergy test does just that.”

What Does an Allergy Test Tell Us?

Allergy tests provide valuable information about an individual’s sensitivities to various allergens. PA Bendokas explains that the results can help in the following ways:
1. Identifying Allergens: Allergy tests can pinpoint specific allergens, helping patients and health care professionals understand what substances trigger allergic reactions. This knowledge is essential for avoiding exposure and managing symptoms effectively.
2. Customized Treatment Plans: Armed with information about specific allergens, health care providers can tailor treatment plans to address the individual’s unique needs. What combinations of common allergens affect an individual is unique and so a treatment plan also needs to be unique to the patient. A plan might include allergen avoidance strategies, medications or immunotherapy.
3. Understanding Severity: The degree of the allergic reaction can vary, and allergy tests can provide insights into the severity of the sensitivity. This information guides health care professionals in determining the appropriate level of intervention and management.
4. Monitoring Progress: If you start a tailored treatment plan, it may be helpful to complete a follow-up allergy test to monitor how well the plan is working. Regular testing helps to assess any changes in sensitivities and adjust the management approach accordingly.
Should You Get an Allergy Test?

Whether you are suffering from seasonal allergies, skin or eye irritations, sinus infections, chronic coughing or asthma, it may be beneficial to get an allergy test. Once your allergens are identified, a treatment plan can be created based on your individual results and needs.

“These tests are an invaluable tool and aid in the identification and then the management of allergies,” says PA Bendokas. “By understanding your individual sensitivities, health care providers such as myself can take proactive steps toward ensuring you can enjoy a healthier and more comfortable life.”

PA Bendokas emphasizes that patients interested in an allergy test should talk to their primary care provider or seek advice from an ENT specialist. White-Wilson’s ENT Clinic now offers a comprehensive allergy relief program focused on providing adult and pediatric patients with a long-term solution to allergy issues. For more information, click here.

Jennifer Bendokas, PA-C is a certified physician assistant with White-Wilson Medical Center’s Otolaryngology (Ear, Nose & Throat) team. She is passionate about helping patients address sinus and allergy issues. Learn more about PA Bendokas and her approach to patient care here.
February 14, 2024
Myth Busters: Only Allergists Can Treat Allergies

With Spring in full bloom and summer just around the corner, we are seeing more than just tourists arriving here on the Emerald Coast. As is evident by the yellow dust showing up on our cars and, well, everywhere else, allergen levels are on the rise and with them often come an uncomfortable pressure in our heads and noses and itching in our throats. For some, these conditions are a seasonal nuisance, something to just grin and bear for a couple months, but for others, allergies have a serious effect on their overall wellbeing.

In patients whose allergies result in more than a slightly stuffy nose and scratchy voice, seeking help from a medical professional can minimize or completely relieve these symptoms. When it comes to the medical treatment of allergies, most people generally think of Allergists, but did you know there is another type of doctor who can help?

“Otolaryngologists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and disorders of the ear, nose and throat, but otolaryngology is a mouthful, so you’ll most commonly hear us referred to as ENT doctors,” explains White-Wilson ENT physician, Dr. Roger Skiles. “As specialists we are very experienced in treating any type of inflammation or discomfort in these areas and that includes those caused by allergies.”

According to Dr. Skiles, allergy symptoms can often be mistaken for other conditions. Visiting an ENT physician in cases where the symptoms last a long time or are reoccurring can help narrow down the cause.

“Especially this time of year, you will see a lot of patients coming into doctors’ offices complaining of sinus pain and itchy throats,” he explains. “They think it’s nothing but a sinus infection or cold, but many times, there is a greater underlying cause – allergies. We are able to administer tests to patients, exposing them to common allergens and determine which triggers a response. Once we know what is causing the allergic reaction, we can make a plan to offer long term relief or, potentially, prevent symptoms from returning.”

Today, we have more treatment options than ever before, so just because symptoms are reoccurring, doesn’t mean they have to be. If you are experiencing repeated allergy or sinus issues, Dr. Skiles recommends you first talk to your primary care provider so that they can recommend a specialist that is best suited for your needs.

Dr. Roger Skiles is a fellowship-trained Ear, Nose and Throat specialist caring for patients at the White-Wilson Ear, Nose & Throat Clinic in Fort Walton Beach. Dr. Skiles is board-certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology and has more than 40 years of experience caring patients. Learn more about Dr. Skiles and his approach to patient care here.

May 9, 2022
Allergy Season Survival Guide

Flowers are blooming, the weather is warming up and spring is here! We were fortunate to have a mild flu season this year, but if you’re one of the 50 million people in the United States who suffer from nasal allergies, you are not in the clear just yet.

According to White-Wilson Medical Center ENT Specialist, Dr. William Gross, “Seasonal allergies begin early on the Emerald Coast with tree pollens being the first allergens.”

Dr. William Gross, ENT Clinic

Dr. Gross adds that we can become sensitized or allergic to many things other than pollen, including foods, house dust, pet dander and mold spores. Mold spore allergy is a major cause of many sinus problems.

The most common allergy symptoms include sneezing, itchy nose, watery eyes or wheezing. Occasionally, rashes, food sensitivities, headaches or severe swelling can be allergy related. Allergy symptoms are often mistaken for the common cold.

“While the common cold may mimic allergy symptoms, the symptoms of a cold usually do not last more than 10 days,” said Dr. Gross. “Some people describe their allergy and sinus problems as the cold that never went away. You should seek medical attention when your symptoms are affecting everyday life.”

According to the Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America, allergies are one of the country’s most common, but overlooked, diseases. Although there is no cure for allergies, they can be managed with prevention and treatment.

“Allergies are treatable with allergy avoidance, medication and immunotherapy, such as allergy shots and drops,” said Dr. Gross. “You can also anticipate allergy season and begin treatment yourself with over the counter antihistamines and nasal sprays, such as Flonase or Nasacort, at the start of your allergy season

For many on the Emerald Coast, allergies are a fact of life. Dr. Gross encourages individuals not to prolong suffering from seasonal or perennial allergies. Today’s medical treatment options can be very helpful and effective.

“Surgery may be helpful for allergy and sinus problems, and endoscopic sinus surgery is available to help relieve chronic sinus problems,” said Dr. Gross. “There are now less invasive treatment options that can be done in a doctor’s office and require little or no downtime.”

You do not have to suffer with allergy and sinus problems. Pay attention to when your allergies flare up, and be proactive in seeking medical treatment when avoidance or over the counter medications are not effective. Once you get your allergies under control, be sure to stop and smell the roses this spring!

To learn more about the White-Wilson ENT Clinic or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Gross, call (850) 863-8275.

April 1, 2016