Allergy Specialist Chantilly, VA

Allergy Specialist Chantilly, VA

When you suffer from allergies, you need the help of a Chantilly, VA allergy specialist. Depending on the severity of your allergies and what you are allergic to, the treatment options available to you will be different. If your allergies are so severe that they are interfering with your quality of life, you should see an allergist to identify the source of your allergy and gain access to all of the treatment options, including prescriptions.

If you find that your allergies are mild to moderate, over the counter medications may be enough. Still, seeing a Chantilly, VA allergy specialist from Black & Kletz Allergy could be a good idea. 

Available Treatments for Allergies

Nasal Sprays

Nasal sprays are the most common remedy for the symptoms of allergies. There are a number of different sprays available; some of which are OTC and others must be prescribed. They include:

• Steroid Nasal Sprays – Also known as corticosteroid sprays, an allergist must prescribe this medication to you. They work by reducing inflammation and mucus in the nasal passage. People who have hay fever may benefit from this treatment. They can take a few days to start working and can be used daily or on a seasonal basis. 
• Antihistamine Sprays – This spray helps to prevent nasal and sinus congestion as well as postnasal drip. They work by blocking the effects of histamine which is a chemical that is released by your body’s immune system during an allergy attack. 
• Decongestant Sprays – If you have nasal congestion, a decongestant may be a good option; however, they are not recommended to treat chronic allergies. Furthermore, OTC decongestant nasal sprays can cause the user to build up a tolerance in as little as 3-5 days, resulting in inflammation. The user may then need more of the spray to find relief. 
• Saline Nasal Sprays – A mild nasal spray for allergies, these contain saltwater that softens up the mucus and encourages it to drain easily. 

Allergy Drugs

Medications can be bought over the counter or prescribed and used to treat allergies. These include antihistamines, decongestants, mast cell stabilizers, steroids, leukotriene modifiers, and epinephrine. Your Chantilly, VA allergy specialist will discuss the best options for you. 

Allergy Shots

Also known as immunotherapy, this is an effective type of allergy treatment that prevents allergic reactions by encouraging the immune system to build a resistance to the allergen. This is done through a course of injections that have been custom made by an allergist. Allergy shots are available for people who have moderate to severe allergies to pollen, grass, hay fever, molds, dust mites, and pet dander. They are generally not given to people who have food allergies.

Allergy Treatments During Pregnancy

Not all allergy treatments can be administered while pregnant or breastfeeding. You should talk with your primary care physician and allergy specialist in Chantilly, Virginia to discuss the benefits and risks of taking any allergy-related medication at these times. 

Avoiding Your Allergens

In addition to the above allergy treatments, an allergist would advise you to make an effort in avoiding your allergens. For example:

• Wash your bedding frequently.
• Replace wallpaper with tiles.
• Use mold-resistant paint.
• Use an exhaust fan in bathrooms.
• Have a HEPA filter in your room or other living areas.
• Replace carpeting with hardwood flooring.
• If you have pollen allergies, take your shoes off and change your clothes when you get home.
• If you have food allergies, always check the labels of foods and confirm ingredients with the restaurant.

To find out what you are allergic to, please call an allergy specialist Chantilly, VA relies on from Black & Kletz Allergy to schedule an appointment today.