treatingallergies

story by | dr. susan mathison, md

The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology estimates that more than 50 million Americans are affected by allergies, and that more than half of us test positive for one or more allergens, such as pollen, dust, molds, animal dander and foods. Allergies are one of the leading causes of lost productivity in the work place, and according to the National Institutes of Health, allergies account for 2 million missed school days per year. On any given day, more than 10,000 children are absent from school because of allergies.

For our children, allergies may be the one of the culprits for excema, otitis media, congestion, snoring, resurrect sinus infections and cough. Family history, discussion about exposures to smoke, pets, dust and daycare, as well as careful physical examination help to figure out the factors involved.

For patients with significant symptoms, improving the home environment to minimize dust, mold and pet exposure is helpful. Over-the-counter and prescription medications can ease the itching, sneezing and congestion. Despite these measures, more that 75% of patients still feel miserable. Allergy immunotherapy, more commonly known as “allergy shots,” is another common treatment for allergy sufferers. Regular injections of a tiny dose of the allergen protein slowly build up the body’s immunity to that allergen, relieving symptoms that range from a frustrating sneezing bout to a life-threatening reaction. While allergy shots are highly effective, the prospect of 3-5 years worth of regular injections can be a significant obstacle.

What is not well known is that there is an at-home treatment available, sublingual immunotherapy (allergy drops). Catalyst Medical Center, directed by Dr. Susan Mathison and Dr. Lesley Soine, has partnered with Allergy Choices, Inc. of LaCrosse, WI, to provide this at-home treatment to patients in our region. The World Health Organization expert panel supports sublingual drops, and in many European countries drops are the first-line of treatment.

Allergy drops are placed under the tongue versus a syringe being injected into the arm. These patientfriendly drops are safe and are particularly effective for people who are unable to tolerate, don’t respond to, or are not appropriate for injection immunotherapy including infants and children and those with other health concerns. For most patients, symptoms are reduced significantly, and the need for other medications by 88%. Children can be the greatest benefactors of sublingual therapy because their immune systems are receptive to therapy. Recent studies have shown that children treated with immunotherapy for their allergies are less likely to develop asthma as well as any new sensitivities.

Benefits to allergy drops include lower costs, fewer clinic visits, convenience, less medication and less time lost from work and school.

1800 21st Ave S, Fargo 701.365-8700 catalystmedicalcenter.com

Catalyst Medical Center is the premier clinic in the region to provide sublingual immunotherapy. The clinic is headquartered in Fargo, ND, with outreach locations in Jamestown and Grand Forks, ND, and Detroit Lakes and Ada, MN. The center provides ear, nose and throat care, facial plastic surgery and other medical and cosmetic services.