Please call our office for appointment at 817-346-6000.

Allergies

Tahir S. Ali, MD

Otolaryngology & Ear, Nose & Throat Specialist located in Fort Worth, TX

Allergies are one of the most prevalent chronic health conditions, affecting more than 50 million Americans every year. In Fort Worth, Texas, Tahir Ali, MD, and his team offer state-of-the-art allergy testing and personalized treatments to manage your symptoms and reduce your allergic responses. Call Dr. Ali's office or schedule a consultation online today for expert allergy treatment.

Allergies Q&A

What are allergies?

An allergy is a hypersensitive immune system response to a typically benign substance, known as an allergen. When your immune system reacts, it releases histamines to fight off the perceived threat, which can trigger a variety of disruptive symptoms, including:

  • Sinus congestion
  • Itchy, watery eyes
  • Wheezing
  • Shortness of breath
  • Coughing 
  • Skin rashes
  • Hives
  • Swelling
  • Vomiting and diarrhea
  • Tingling in your mouth or lips


Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that includes several allergic symptoms, as well as a rapid drop in blood pressure and disrupted breathing. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical treatment. 

What triggers allergies?

A wide range of substances can trigger allergic reactions. Some of the most common allergens include:

  • Pollen
  • Dust
  • Pet dander
  • Insect stings
  • Latex
  • Medications, like penicillin
  • Foods like nuts, shellfish, eggs, and dairy

 

Your risk of developing allergies is higher if you have a family history of allergies or asthma. Your symptoms can also change over time, becoming more or less severe. 

How are allergies diagnosed?

Dr. Ali and his team provide comprehensive exams and allergy testing. They confirm that your symptoms are due to an allergic reaction and identify the substance causing them. They begin by reviewing your personal and family medical history and completing a physical exam. They might draw a blood sample to test for allergies. 

Dr. Ali also offers skin testing for allergies. During this test, he injects a small amount of a very diluted allergen into your skin and watches for an allergic reaction. He can test for several suspected allergens at once, creating a line or grid of injections. Allergy testing is exceptionally safe, as you’re under continuous observation throughout the test.

How are allergies treated?

Dr. Ali provides personalized treatment plans to help you manage your allergies. In addition to prescribing antihistamines to reduce your allergic reactions, he also helps you develop avoidance strategies to reduce potential exposure to your allergic triggers. 

Dr. Ali also offers immunotherapy to help build your resistance to allergens. He provides both allergy drops and injections. During immunotherapy, you’re exposed to minute amounts of your allergic trigger to desensitize your immune system. You typically begin with frequent appointments and taper to infrequent treatments to help maintain your resistance. 

If you or a member of your family suffer from allergies, call Dr. Ali's office or make an appointment online today.