Finger Lakes Otolaryngology (ENT) Allergy Testing-Treatments and Frequently Asked Questions

The initial or presumptive diagnosis of allergy is made through a patient’s history and physical examination. To be certain of the diagnosis and prescribe effective treatment, findings must be confirmed by tests that identify the specific offending allergens. There are several methods to test for allergies which can be divided into two groups: those on the skin and those performed on the patient’s blood. The testing methods on the skin involve either prick on intradermal injections using very fine needles which result in being able to measure the skin reactivity compared to non-reactive substances (controls). The test performed on your blood measures specific antibodies to specific allergens. Finger Lakes Otolaryngology specializes in providing an environment to accurately skin test you with allergy nurses who are trained to quickly and efficiently assess your allergic sensitivity.

There are three basic accepted approaches to allergy care:

1) Avoidance of the offending allergens and environmental controls. Unfortunately, avoiding some allergens (such as dust, molds, and animals) is often difficult and, thus, allergen avoidance alone may not be effective. Additional measures including HEPA air cleaner, air conditioning, dust mite covers, humidity control and food cross-reactivity might provide additional benefit.

2) Pharmacotherapy (medications). These may include antihistamines, decongestants, prescription nasal sprays and other types of products. These, however, only control the symptoms and never really address the underlying problem of your immune system.

3) Immunotherapy. This includes allergy injections (shots), sublingual drops, or anti-IgE injections. Immunotherapy can alter the body's overactive response by carefully challenging the patient's; immune system through regular administration of the actual allergens to which a patient is sensitive. Over time, it is possible to alter a person's excessive response to these environmental allergens and, both improve symptoms, as well as, decrease the need for medications and allergen avoidance for many years.

Is allergy testing covered by my insurance?
Other than your deductible, allergy testing is most always covered. Our office staff can inform you of the costs, if any, prior to the testing being performed.

What is the length of treatment for immunotherapy?
Whether you are on allergy shots or drops, the treatment is generally 3 to 5 years.

How safe are allergy drops?
Allergy drops are very safe. There have been no reported anaphylactic reactions to this mode of therapy. The most common side-effect is local oral discomfort which usually resolves with conservative treatment.

Can food allergies be treated using immunotherapy?
Yes, sublingual drops which have been formulated with your specific allergens can be administered to neutralize the allergic reaction and, thus, decrease symptoms.

Are sublingual drops covered by insurance?
Unfortunately, sublingual drops are not currently covered by insurance despite overwhelming evidence supporting sublingual treatment. However, the cost of therapy is often less than a year’s treatment costs associated with injection immunotherapy. Flex-spending health accounts can be used to pay for sublingual drop therapy.

How frequently am I re-evaluated?
Generally, our office staff schedules visits ever 6 months while on immunotherapy. Our staff is always available to handle questions over the phone and our clinics have regular scheduled hours. In addition, our allergy nurses are very experienced in answering your questions or concerns.

Can I receive allergy shots at home or at another physician’s office?
Yes. After achieving a maintenance dose you can either transfer your serums to another physician’s office or learn to do the injections yourself. If you are a minor, an adult family member or friend can learn to administer the injections. Our office will spend considerable time in teaching the proper techniques in giving the shots as well as learning all the paperwork in order to re-order the serums.

How long does it take to be tested for allergies?
A comprehensive allergy test (airborne and food allergens) generally takes up to 1.5 hours. The food testing portion takes approximately 30 minutes to perform. You will know what you are allergic to immediately after the testing.

Can I be skin tested for peanut allergies?
No. If your history indicates a possible fixed (immediate) food allergy you can have a simple blood test to determine your allergic sensitivity.

Can my child be tested for allergies?
Yes. We are able to test children 4 years of age and older. If testing is required in younger children we can either order a blood test or perform testing under general anesthesia.

How frequently do I need to get shots/drops?
The frequency for injections (shots) is usually once per week for the first year. In subsequent years the frequency is tapered to control and relieve symptoms. With sublingual drops, the treatment frequency is usually every day, done in the convenience of your home.