Southeast Texas Medical Associates, LLP James L. Holly, M.D. Southeast Texas Medical Associates, LLP


About SETMA - Special Services - Allergy Testing
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Special Services

SETMA offers a high-quality evaluation of all allergy conditions and a treatment plan which is effective and safe. To see if allergy treatment would help you, schedule an appointment with SETMA's Allergy Clinic.

Allergic Rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis is the most common chronic disease suffered by humans. Prevalence in America ranges from 10-20 percent. The symptoms of allergies usually occur in childhood, although adult onset is not uncommon. A family history of allergies in parents does increase the risk in their children. The symptoms of allergic rhinitis are:
  1. runny nose
  2. sneezing
  3. post nasal drip
  4. chronic cough
  5. headaches
  6. fatigue, and
  7. recurrent sinus infections
Seasonal rhinitis exist within a time frame of allergen exposure. Seasonal rhinitis occurs in climates which allergenic pollens are airborne during certain times of the year. This may be caused from trees in the Spring and ragweed in the Fall.

Perennial allergic rhinitis is typically related to indoor exposure to allergens such as dust mites. The symptoms of this type of rhinitis occur all year round. Typically when allergy patients have exhausted all of the over the counter preparations, they see their physician.

After careful history and physical examination, allergy testing maybe indicated. At SETMA we perform intradermal skin testing for pollens, mites, molds and various animal danders. After testing proves the patient is allergic, they are placed on allergy shots weekly.

Avoidance of any potential allergy triggers is always advised to our patients and environmental counseling is given. At SETMA we administer the allergy shots in the office for the first 5- 6 weeks, then when it is a safe and effective maintenance dose, we allow patients to administer their shots at home.

The duration to receive allergy injections ranges from 3- 5 years. Patients receiving allergy shots during the pollen season may also benefit from nasal steroids and nasal antihistamines.