The allergy providers at Colorado ENT & Allergy understand that conditions like asthma, allergies, skin rashes, and recurrent infections can interfere with school, work, sleep, and general quality of life. Fortunately, many of the conditions we manage have excellent treatment options, and we also participate in clinical trials investigating the most cutting-edge therapies. Do not hesitate to get relief—call our office today!
Environmental/Seasonal Allergies
One out of every 5 Americans is affected by allergies. This could include seasonal allergies (usually related to pollen) or year-round allergies like dust mites or pets. Our providers and staff will first perform allergy testing to determine the specific triggers of your symptoms. Certain medications must be stopped before testing (link below). Based on your testing results, our providers will recommend a treatment plan that may include any combination of allergen avoidance education, prescription or over-the-counter medications, and immunotherapy (shots or drops).
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Pollen Count
Check out the current pollen count for tree pollen, grass pollen, and ragweed pollen in Colorado Springs at weather.com (opens in a new window):
Asthma
Asthma is a chronic condition that causes the airways to become inflamed and narrowed. This can lead to recurrent coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness with triggers like allergens, infections, exercise, weather changes, smoke, etc. We provide exceptional asthma care to our patients, helping them gain control of their symptoms through education and medication management. Asthma cannot be cured but can be controlled for most patients who work with an asthma specialist.
Watch the “Back To School Asthma” Video by Dr. Caplan:
Learn more about: Pediatric Allergy & Asthma Services
Food Allergy
There are many different types of reactions that people can have to foods, which can make testing and treatment very confusing. Some food reactions, called food allergies, can lead to potentially dangerous reactions requiring epinephrine treatment. Other food reactions, called sensitivities or intolerances, can lead to problems like bloating, gas, stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea, headaches, rashes, and fatigue. Food allergy testing may or may not be appropriate depending on the type of reaction. Our providers will discuss your symptoms with you to determine whether food allergy testing makes sense.
Eczema
Eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis) is a recurrent skin rash that can be extremely itchy and bothersome. Allergies can cause eczema to flare up. Other triggers include weather, infections, scratching, and perfumes/fragrances in soaps, lotions, and detergents.
Chronic Hives
Chronic hives are a frustrating and very bothersome condition. Sometimes, an allergy is identified, but sometimes, hives are not allergy-related. Even if allergies are not the underlying cause, our providers will work with you to find a medication regimen to control the hives.
Venom Allergy
Although uncommon, some people will experience severe reactions after being stung by wasps, bees, hornets, yellow jackets, and fire ants.
Penicillin Allergy
Many people in the U.S. have a diagnosis of penicillin allergy, but once evaluated, only 1 in 10 are found to be allergic to penicillin in a way that requires avoidance. There are significant downsides to avoiding penicillin when you may not be allergic, including a higher risk of antibiotic resistance and adverse effects of alternative medications. Our allergy providers and staff are highly skilled at safely evaluating patients for penicillin allergy, even if past reactions have been severe. Click on the link below to learn more!
Immunodeficiency
Recurrent sinus infections, pneumonia, skin infections, or infections requiring hospitalization can sometimes indicate an underlying problem with the immune system. The most common immunodeficiency is not having enough antibodies to fight off infections. Treatment can include antibiotics and immunoglobulin replacement. Immunodeficiencies are different than autoimmune diseases, which a Rheumatology specialist typically manages.
Services Not Offered
- Psoriasis
- Black mold testing
- Cannabis allergy testing
- Itching without rash
- Mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) evaluation
- Medication allergy testing (other than penicillin)
- Occupational asthma / Worker’s Compensation evaluation
- Tobacco allergy testing
Schedule an appointment at Colorado ENT & Allergy today at one of our Colorado Springs locations.
