View From the Top

Central Plains ENT & Audiology

Health Solutions That Fit Your Lifestyle

By Angella A. Arndt

Do you suffer from itchy, watery eyes? Sneezing? A runny or congested nose? Do you have an unexplained rash or hives? If so, you may be experiencing allergy symptoms. Allergies appear when your body’s immune system overreacts to foreign substances such as tree and plant pollens, grasses, insect bites, mold, pet dander, or some foods. You don’t have to suffer! Whether you seek relief from allergies or another ear, nose, or throat issue, the team at Central Plains Ear, Nose, Throat & Audiology is ready to get you on the road to recovery.

After years in academic and group private practices, Drs. Iris and Gary Moore founded Central Plains ENT & Audiology in 2002. Dr. Iris Moore treats general ear, nose, and throat problems, including sinus diseases, nasal issues, sleep apnea, and snoring. Dr. Gary Moore specializes in neurotology, the medical and surgical treatment of conditions that affect the balance system, inner ears, temporal bone, skull base, and related head and neck structures. The team also includes two doctors of audiology (AuD) who specialize in diagnosing and treating hearing loss and balance disorders.

Many parts of the head and neck can be affected by allergens, Dr. Moore explains. Allergies may be accompanied by headaches or may lead to nasal congestion, sinus and ear infections, eustachian tube dysfunction, or even hearing loss.

During an initial examination, patients are asked about their symptom history and receive a thorough physical exam. If warranted, x-rays are obtained. A comprehensive evaluation is performed to determine if any underlying problems are causing or contributing to the symptoms. Dr. Moore notes that listening to patients is crucial. “We obtain far more valuable information from a patient’s history than we would from just a physical exam. Listening to a patient provides important clues about the issues and helps us recommend the best treatment options.”

Allergy tests are then performed to determine what is causing allergy symptoms. The most common type of allergy test is the skin prick test. A drop of allergen extract is placed on the skin, and a needle is used to prick the skin so a small amount of the extract can enter just below the skin’s surface. Approximately 15 minutes later, the skin is observed for signs of an allergic reaction, like redness or swelling. A blood test may be conducted to confirm skin test results or determine how much of an allergen-specific antibody is in the blood.

After allergies are diagnosed, an individualized treatment plan is developed to determine the best course of therapy. Allergy treatment options include avoidance, medications, and allergen immunotherapy.

Avoidance means avoiding the allergens causing your symptoms. Many allergy symptoms are successfully treated with over-the-counter or prescription drugs. Allergen immunotherapy is a treatment option for individuals with respiratory allergies caused by things like pollen, mold, and animal dander. This treatment involves receiving either injections or sublingual drops (drops placed under the tongue). Allergy shots reduce allergen sensitivity and may provide lasting relief, even after treatment is completed.

Allergy shots are usually recommended for patients whose allergy symptoms cannot be adequately treated with medication or for patients who are trying to avoid long-term use of medication. Central Plains ENT & Audiology partners with United Allergy Services to provide a personalized allergy shot treatment plan that patients can perform at home. “When patients are taught how to administer their own allergy shots, they can do it at home instead of coming into the office for each dose,” Dr. Moore notes. United Allergy Services trains patients on self-administering their shots and educates them on safety protocols before giving them their medication vials.

Complications secondary to allergy symptoms, such as acute and chronic sinusitis or ear disease, may sometimes require surgical intervention. In addition to treating allergies, Central Plains ENT & Audiology treats the full spectrum of ear, nose, and throat issues, including balance disorders, hearing difficulties, sleep apnea, sinus diseases, thyroid diseases, nasal problems, and head and neck masses.

Dr. Moore’s goal is to ensure that patients are provided with information and options regarding their care. “I give patients non-surgical and, if appropriate, surgical options so that they can make informed decisions about their treatment.”

The Central Plains ENT & Audiology team strives to provide high-quality, patient-focused care in a welcoming and kind environment. “We are thorough in our approach and treat patients how we would like to be treated,” Dr. Moore concludes. “It’s rewarding to improve a patient’s health, well-being, and quality of life.”

Central Plains Ear, Nose, Throat & Audiology is located at 8005 Farnam Drive, Suite 204, in Omaha. Call 402-502-6970 to schedule an appointment. You can learn more about them online at centralplainsent.com.