Enjoy Spring Without the Annoyance of Allergies

As the sun peeks through and the temperatures begin to warm, we are reminded again what a beautiful season spring is in the Pacific Northwest. Light and breezy, the soft scent of blossoming flowers fills the air—while lovely to some, others are reminded of the not-so-pleasant sign of spring, seasonal allergies. With the pollen count high, many men and women can expect to suffer the symptoms related to allergies.You are not alone in your struggle: approximately 50 million Americans suffer from nasal allergies—representing upwards of 30 percent of adults and 40 percent of children. At Northwest Face & Body, we understand that allergies can be frustrating and often put a damper on an otherwise enjoyable spring season. Believing in a comprehensive approach, along with a number of treatment options, we are pleased to be able to provide in-office allergy testing.Seasonal Allergy SymptomsAlthough seasonal allergies are bound to affect everyone differently, patients commonly experience:

• Fatigue and headaches
• Coughing, sneezing, or wheezing
• Irritated, itchy, watery, red, or puffy eyes
• Congestion or dripping, runny, and itchy nose
• Sore or itchy throat

While some may only experience mild symptoms; for others, symptoms can be more severe and can even interfere with one’s ability to go about their daily activities. Recently quoted in the Seattle Times, Northwest Face & Body’s own Dr. Nilesh Shah reminds us, “Younger individuals with poorly controlled asthma [and] people with other baseline respiratory issues” are most likely to be “prone to having issues when pollen counts are high.”

What Triggers Your Allergies?

Seasonal allergies are most often the result of pollen. That said, many individuals struggle from a number of other common allergens, including mold, pet dander, and airborne pollutants. To better understand what triggers your allergies, we suggest that our patients keep a record of when and where their symptoms are at their worst.

The Relief You Need

At our Kirkland practice, Dr. Shah and Dr. Ummant both specialize in ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) services. With in-office testing, we are able to help you identify the source and cause of your allergies. From here, we are able to customize a treatment plan specific to your unique needs.While there is no “cure” for allergies, there are a number of options that can offer relief. While a number of medications are readily available—such as antihistamines, decongestants, and corticosteroids—these often only offer temporary relief. For many, allergy symptoms continue and are simply out of one’s control.In more severe cases, Immunotherapy may be recommended. Known as Allergy Injections, Immunotherapy slowly introduces an allergen to your system—eventually teaching your body how to naturally fight what your body reacts to.

Enjoy Spring: Be Allergy Free with Northwest Face & Body

Seasonal allergies are no fun! This spring, step outside without the worry of allergies. Schedule a consultation to learn more about our in-office allergy testing and treatments.