Allergies occur when the body’s immune system reacts to substances that are generally not harmful, such as pollen, mold, or pet dander.
In the U.S., allergies affect more than 100 million individuals annually, making them the sixth primary cause of chronic disease. Symptoms typically occur in the ears, nose and throat and include itching, swelling, watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing, and coughing.
Symptomatic Effects
Allergies can sometimes affect the ears, nose, and throat simultaneously because of their interconnected nature. For instance, the ears and nose drain into the throat, so allergens that irritate membranes in one area can cause drainage that leads to another. Explore the symptoms of allergies and how they impact the nose, throat, and ears separately.
Nose
Common nasal symptoms are stuffiness and a runny nose, along with sneezing, congestion, and itchiness. Allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever, specifically targets the nose and can occur after activities like walks through City Centre Park. The resulting nasal congestion can lead to a postnasal drip that also affects the throat.
Throat
The postnasal drip that occurs due to allergic rhinitis can often irritate the throat, causing it to feel ticklish, itchy, or sore. In some instances, allergies may even lead to swelling in the throat or the roof of the mouth, which can make swallowing difficult.
Ears
While not the most obvious, the ears can also suffer due to allergies. Nasal congestion can lead to a feeling of pressure or pain in the ears, a condition linked to Eustachian tube dysfunction. Additionally, this congestion can temporarily affect hearing.
There is a range of medications available to alleviate allergy symptoms, including over-the-counter and prescription options such as nasal sprays, antihistamines and decongestants. For those seeking tailored advice, an ENT specialist can provide guidance on allergy testing and personalized treatment plans. For serious allergies, an ENT might suggest allergy immunotherapy, a long-term treatment aimed at reducing sensitivity to allergens.
For further information on managing allergies and their impact on the ears, nose, and throat, or to discuss treatment options, consider scheduling a consultation with Midwest ENT Centre.