The management and treatment of allergies is part of the training that modern ENT physicians experience in residency and in practice. Allergy testing is typically done in one of two ways. This takes 1-2 hours and the results are seen immediately. This method of testing is very reliable and is the main allergy test performed in this office. The other method is RAST testing which is done by drawing blood and sending to an outside laboratory.
SET testing remains the preferred method whenever possible.
Once testing is completed, the results are reviewed with the patient in a follow up visit. The three main methods of allergy treatment are discussed. Sometimes more than one method of treatment must be employed to achieve the desired results. Sometimes surgery can be avoided with aggressive allergy therapy. But if necessary, the surgical options can always be considered.