Allergies and Allergy Testing
Many people don’t want to talk to us about allergies because they’re afraid that we’re going to talk about allergy shots. But in fact, allergy shots are not the only treatment options that we have here at Joplin Ear, Nose and Throat. We actually make allergy drops for those people that can’t make it to get shots every week and you can administer the drops at home and they’re very safe.
The Purpose of Allergy Testing
Our goal in allergy testing is to identify the specific triggers that cause your symptoms. Once we know the offenders, we work to reduce or eliminate your exposure to them. If needed, we use immunotherapy—giving the body very small amounts of these allergens over time—so your immune system learns to recognize them without overreacting. In simple terms, it helps your body “practice” with these triggers until it can say, “I’ve seen this before, and I did fine.”
The immune system is constantly deciding whether something it encounters is safe or harmful. Normally, it recognizes food and everyday substances as harmless. With allergies, however, the body overreacts to certain triggers, treating them like dangerous invaders. That’s why symptoms such as congestion, itching, or swelling occur—the body is mounting an unnecessary defense.
Through immunotherapy, we introduce very small amounts of these allergens in gradually increasing doses. Over time, the immune system adapts and accepts the allergen as harmless. Once this conversion happens, allergic reactions fade, symptoms resolve, and lasting immunity can develop—often providing relief for up to a decade.
How Allergy Testing Is Performed
We use a two‑step approach to allergy testing: the skin prick test and intradermal testing. The prick test is performed with a small plastic device applied to the surface of the skin, while intradermal testing involves a tiny needle placed just under the skin on both arms.
With the prick device, we can test up to eight allergens at once, plus two controls, arranged in five trays. This allows us to evaluate 38 allergens efficiently instead of testing each one individually. The procedure is very well tolerated—even by young children—because it feels more like light pressure or mild irritation than pain.
The device itself has a gentle pressure point in the center and five very small tines. It does not penetrate deeply; in fact, it goes no deeper than the pressure of a fingernail against the skin.
Non‑Allergic Rhinitis Treatments
Not all nasal congestion and drainage are caused by allergies. Some patients suffer from non‑allergic rhinitis, where the nasal passages overreact to triggers such as weather changes, irritants, or strong odors.
At Joplin ENT, we offer advanced, minimally invasive treatments for non‑allergic rhinitis:
Both procedures are performed in‑office, are well‑tolerated, and provide long‑lasting relief for patients who have struggled with chronic nasal symptoms that don’t respond to medications or allergy therapy.
Can I Use Something Other Than Allergy Shots or Allergy Drops?
There are also several products that are commercially available through the pharmacies that are tablets that you would take at home as well. Those are for grasses, dust mites, and ragweed. So if you have those problems and you’re afraid of allergy shots, come see us. We may be be able to avoid the shot and treat your allergies as well.
Chronic Urticaria & Atopic Dermatitis
In addition to allergy and sinus care, we also treat patients with chronic urticaria (hives) and atopic dermatitis (eczema). These conditions are often driven by immune system overactivity and can be difficult to control with standard medications. At Joplin ENT, we offer advanced biologic therapies such as Xolair® and Dupixent®, which target the underlying pathways of inflammation. These treatments provide long‑term relief and improve quality of life for patients who have struggled with persistent symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
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From better hearing and improved sleep to allergy relief and younger-looking skin, our team is here to help every member of your family feel their best. Discover compassionate ENT care right here in your community.