Allergies Q & A

If you constantly have a runny nose and nasal congestion, it may be due to allergies or nonallergic rhinitis. The ENT experts at SCENT – Southern California Ear, Nose, and Throat, treat allergies and chronic rhinitis at five convenient locations in Long Beach, Los Alamitos, Huntington Beach, and Newport Beach, California. Call your nearest ENT office or book an appointment online today to find relief from seasonal and perennial allergies.

What are allergies?

Allergies occur when your immune system overreacts to a substance that isn’t normally harmful. An allergen is a substance that triggers an allergic reaction. Many different allergies affect various parts of your body. The most common allergies to affect your nose and throat include:

Seasonal allergies

Also known as hay fever, seasonal allergies are a reaction to airborne substances that only appear during certain times of the year. Pollen from trees, grasses, and ragweed are common allergens.

Perennial allergies

Perennial allergies may persist year-round. These allergies involve allergens that are present any time of the year, such as household dust, mold, and pet dander.

What are the symptoms of allergies?

Whether your allergies are seasonal or perennial, they can cause similar symptoms. Allergies that result from airborne substances often cause allergic rhinitis.

Signs and symptoms of allergic rhinitis include:

  • Chronic runny nose
  • Nasal congestion
  • Sneezing
  • Itchy nose or throat

These symptoms are similar to vasomotor rhinitis, which causes chronic sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion that isn’t due to an overactive immune response. That’s why it’s important to see the medical professionals at SCENT – Southern California Ear, Nose, and Throat for an accurate diagnosis.

How are allergies diagnosed and treated?

First, the team at SCENT – Southern California Ear, Nose, and Throat reviews your symptoms and medical history and performs a physical exam. If they think your symptoms are due to allergies, they may recommend you see an allergist or immunologist for allergy testing.

Treatment for allergies may include avoiding known allergens, taking medications, or receiving immunotherapy in the form of allergy shots or under-the-tongue (sublingual) drops or tablets.

For chronic runny nose and nasal congestion due to vasomotor rhinitis, ClariFix® surgery at SCENT – Southern California Ear, Nose, and Throat may be an option. This minimally invasive in-office procedure treats the root cause of nonallergic rhinitis. ClariFix uses advanced cryotherapy technology to block nerve signals that cause a runny and stuffy nose.

Schedule an Allergy Consultation with Southern California ENT

To get your allergies under your control, call the Southern California Ear, Nose, & Throat nearest you today. Alternatively, you can request an appointment online. We have offices in Los Alamitos, Long Beach, Huntington Beach, and Newport Beach.