Introduction
When left untreated, allergies can open the door to many other problems. The consequences of delaying allergy treatment range from health issues to poor quality of life. Patients may not feel the immediate effect of untreated allergies beyond common symptoms such as sneezing and itching. However, if allergy treatment is significantly delayed, more severe symptoms may arise. Here’s what happens when allergies are left untreated.
Risk of Infections
Allergies can lead to ear and sinus infections. An ear infection occurs when the auditory tube in the ear becomes impaired. Congestion and inflammation are common causes of this impairment. Because allergies cause congestion and inflammation, they can provoke an ear infection.
This kind of inflammation can also trigger a sinus infection. Sinus infections occur when nasal passages become inflamed. While many sinus and ear infections resolve on their own, some may need to be treated with antibiotics. This means more time and money spent at the doctor’s office or an urgent care center. It’s best to treat your allergies at an allergy center before an infection begins.
Bad Breath
Post-nasal drip, which may result from allergies, can cause bad breath. As mucus from the sinus cavities moves down the back of the throat, it provides a food source for bacteria. This bacteria remains in the mouth causing a foul smell.
Dry mouth is also a result of allergies. Without saliva to wash away bacteria and leftover food particles, bacteria and debris stay put. The bacteria then starts to break down food particles, creating odor. One of our highly trained allergists will treat your allergies and help you prevent these symptoms. At NY Allergy & Sinus Centers, we treat the underlying problem, not just the symptoms.
Exacerbation of Asthma
Asthma is a symptom of many allergies. Allergens, such as mold and dust mites, are common triggers of asthma. Without treatment, patients can suffer from a severe asthma attack. Many Board-Certified Allergists are trained to treat severe asthma. Our allergists aim to diagnose the allergies that trigger your asthma because we know that faster diagnosis means faster relief.
Poor Sleep
Allergic reactions interfere with normal, healthy sleep. When nasal congestion blocks the breathing airways, it interrupts your sleep. This is common in sleep apnea, a sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts. Since allergies can affect your breathing, it’s important to seek treatment immediately. Our allergists are also available to diagnose sleep apnea with a home sleep study. Contact one of our six offices to book an appointment.
Poor Quality of Life
Allergies can significantly affect your quality of life. You may have to give up outdoor activities that you enjoy during certain times of the year, like hiking or biking. Allergies can also affect your work performance and cause chronic fatigue. When this happens, we suggest allergy shots. Allergy shots, also known as immunotherapy, cause the patient’s immune system to become less sensitive to specific allergens. This treatment is successful in reducing allergic reactions over time. To begin the first step in eliminating your allergies, call (212) 686-4448 today!