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Allergy Specialist

Downtown ENT: B. Thuy Le, MD Our Services Allergy

Downtown ENT: B. Thuy Le, MD

Otolaryngologist located in New York, NY

Over 50 million Americans live with a wide range of allergies symptoms that range in severity. At Downtown ENT in SoHo, Manhattan, B. Thuy Le, MD provides expert allergy diagnosis and treatment for patients from throughout New York City. If you have allergies, call Downtown ENT or schedule a consultation online today.

Allergy Q&A

What is an allergy?

An allergy is a chronic health condition that occurs when your immune system mistakes a benign substance for a threat and releases histamines and other factors to fight it off. You can develop an allergy at any point in your life, and the severity of your symptoms can change. For example, some patients develop hay fever as adults.

A wide range of substances can trigger allergic reactions. Some of the most common allergens include:

  • Pollen
  • Dust
  • Pet dander
  • Insects
  • Mold
  • Latex
  • Specific foods (nuts, shellfish, dairy, etc.)
  • Specific medications like penicillin

Your body can respond to allergens in a variety of ways. For example, watery, itchy eyes, a runny nose, sneezing and a cough are common symptoms of hay fever. You could also develop a rash or hives or experience swelling. Depending on your specific allergy, you might also have gastrointestinal symptoms like stomach cramps, bloating, vomiting, or diarrhea. 

How are allergies diagnosed?

If you think you have an allergy, schedule a consultation with Dr. Le. She reviews your medical history and symptoms and examines any present signs. 

How are allergies treated?

Dr. Le creates customized treatment plans to manage your allergies. She might combine treatments to reduce or eliminate your symptoms and improve your health. For example, she might recommend:

  • Antihistamine medication
  • Corticosteroid nasal sprays, topical treatments, or oral pills
  • Mast cell stabilizers
  • Epinephrine 

Dr. Le might also recommend immunotherapy. During immunotherapy, you train your body to tolerate allergens with controlled exposure to gradually increasing amounts of the substance. 

Avoidance strategies are another critical part of allergy management. Once you know what substances trigger your reaction, you can take steps to avoid exposure. For example, if you know that pollen triggers your allergies, you can keep your windows closed, shower as soon as you come in, or limit your time outdoors. 

If you’re concerned about allergies, call Dr. Le at Downtown ENT or book an appointment online today.