Dr. Hazenfield -- Ear, Nose, and Throat Doctor in Hawaii

Causes, treatment, and prevention of allergies

Hugh N. Hazenfield, M.D., F.A.C.S.

• Allergies and allergic rhinitis  

• Many "colds" are actually due to allergic rhinitis, especially if the "cold" symptoms occur frequently or back-to-back. 

• In Hawaii, pollen, particles of plants, animal dander, feathers, mold spores,red dirt, gecko and cockroach droppings, etc., come into contact with the lining of the nose, eyes, or throat and cause allergic symptoms.  

• The body's immune system recognizes the presence of these allergens and starts a reaction to prevent their invasion.  In most people this is not a problem.  However, in some patients the immune system is overactive and identifies normally harmless particles as dangerous, producing an excessive reaction that actually causes inflammation.  This is known as allergy and the substances causing it are allergens.  

• People are allergic to only certain substances, and the reaction does not usually appear until after several exposures to that substance.
  

• Common causes in Hawaii

   

   

   

  • Certain allergens are always present:

     

    • Molds

    • Pollens

    • Gecko and cockroach droppings

    • Airborne dirt, smoke, and cane ash

    • Construction dust

    • Dust mites

    • House dust

    • Household pet danders and/or feathers

    • Foods

    • Chemicals used around the house

    • Others

      

  • Other allergens are present at certain times:

     

    • Seasonal pollens (mock orange, mango)

    • Increased mold exposure during the rainy season

    • Increased mold exposure during high surf seasons

    • Tobacco (and other) smoke

   

• Can Allergies Be Serious?

   

  • Allergic patients show reduced resistance to respiratory infections, and more severe symptoms when infections occur. 

  • Allergies are rarely life threatening, but often cause lost work days, decreased work efficiency, poor school performance, and a negative effect on the enjoyment of life.  

  • Millions of dollars are spent on anti-allergy medications. 

  • The cost in lost school or work time is extensive.

   

• Why See a Doctor?

  

  The ENT specialist (otolaryngologist) will do a complete examination of your ears, nose, throat, head and neck. Careful evaluation of the sinuses will enable him or her to determine if an infection or a structural abnormality (deviated septum, polyps) is contributing to your symptoms.

• Treatment 

  

   

  • A very large supply of tissue, such as the young lady above is using.

  • A number of medications are useful in the treatment of allergy including antihistamines, decongestants, and steroid preparations. 

  • The medical management of allergy also includes counseling in proper environmental control. 

  • Based on a detailed history and thorough examination, your doctor may advise further testing to determine the specific substances to which you are allergic. 

  • In Hawaii, since our homes are usually open to whatever blows through the windows or louvers, it is difficult to avoid all allergens.

  • The only "cures" available for inhalant allergy are to completely avoid the allergen (moving to another locality). 

  • Your physician will oversee your progress throughout the course of treatment and care for any other nasal and sinus disorders that may contribute to your symptoms.

• Prevention Tips

   

  • Wear a pollen mask when mowing grass or house cleaning (most drugstores sell them).

  • Change or clean the air filters monthly in air conditioning systems.

  • If possible, keep windows and doors closed during heavy pollination seasons.

  • Rid the home of indoor plants and other sources of mildew.

  • Don't allow dander producing animals (i.e. cats, dogs, etc.) or pet birds in the home.

  • Change feather pillows, woolen blankets, and woolen clothing to cotton or synthetic materials. 

  • Enclose mattress, box springs and pillows in plastic barrier cloth.

  • Purchase new pillows every 6 months.

  • Use antihistamines and decongestants as necessary and as tolerated.  (If you purchase them over-the-counter, read and heed the warnings on the packages.  They may cause high blood pressure, increased pressure in the eyes, or - in men - difficulty urinating.)

  • Sleep with the head of the bed tilted upwards. A brick or two placed under bedposts at the head of the bed helps relieve nasal congestion.

  • Observe general good health practices; exercise daily, stop smoking, avoid other air pollutants, eat a balanced diet, and supplement diet with vitamins, especially C.

  • Discuss allergy symptoms with your physician when you experience an allergic reaction.