Allergies

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You can’t stop sneezing, your eyes are all red and watery and there’s not enough tissues to stop your runny nose.

It can be beyond frustrating when your allergies act up. Whether you’re allergic to pets, pollen or food, living with allergies can be a headache (literally). It can feel like you can never breathe easy. And you’re not alone — an estimated 50 million Americans are affected by allergies.

If you’ve tried over-the-counter medications without any relief, it may be time to find a healthcare team that can help manage your symptoms. At Cleveland Clinic, our skilled team of allergists — the largest in the United States — can apply their expert knowledge to treating a wide range of conditions. We work diligently to confirm what you’re allergic to and then provide a comprehensive treatment plan.

Why Choose Cleveland Clinic for Allergy Care?

Collaborative care:

More than 170 pulmonologists, allergists/immunologists, infectious disease experts, critical care specialists and more work together to offer an evidence-based diagnosis that pinpoints your allergies. Meet our team.

Comprehensive treatment:

From allergen immunotherapy to intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) administration, we offer a broad range of treatment options. We can develop a care plan that works best for your needs.

Virtual visits:

When you’re not feeling great, getting to your provider’s office may be the last thing you want to do. That’s when a virtual visit might be a good option. You’ll get the same great care but from the comfort and convenience of home. All you need to get started is an internet connection and your smartphone, computer or tablet.

National recognition:

Cleveland Clinic is a trusted healthcare leader. We're recognized in the U.S. and throughout the world for our expertise and care.

Diagnosing Allergies at Cleveland Clinic

Sure, staying away from potential allergens like pets, mold or even bees may sound like a good plan. But first you need to figure out what’s causing your allergic reaction. And then avoiding that allergen may not be realistic for everyone. Our team is dedicated to working towards finding the right treatment and helping you make any necessary lifestyle changes so you can live your best life.

Types of allergies we treat

Allergies can come in many forms and from many places. The first thing we need to do is figure out what type of allergy you’re dealing with. The most common allergies include:

Food allergies.
Inhalant allergies.
Medication allergies.
Venom/stinging insect allergies.

What to expect at your first visit

Your first appointment is a chance to talk about what you’re experiencing and to get to know your provider. We’ll start out by asking about your symptoms and how they affect your daily life.

Next you may get a skin prick test or a blood test — the two most common allergy tests — to confirm a diagnosis.

Meet Our Allergy Team

At Cleveland Clinic, we have a team of providers who work together to give you the best possible care. These experts offer treatment and allergy management for all kinds of allergic/immunology disorders. You may meet with:

Allergists (immunologists).
Infectious disease experts.
Critical care specialists.
Rheumatologists.
Otolaryngologists (ENTs).
Dermatologists.

Providers Who Treat Allergies

Locations

We offer treatment for allergies at many convenient locations throughout Northeast Ohio, Florida and in London.

Treating Allergies at Cleveland Clinic

With so many over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications available to treat allergies, it can be tough to know where to start and what might work for you. Our allergists use their expertise to come up with a plan customized for you and your needs. They’ll also make any necessary adjustments along the way.

Antihistamines

Your body release a substance called histamine during an allergic reaction. Fexofenadine, loratadine and cetirizine are common over-the-counter drugs that are used to treat allergies by blocking histamines.

Nasal sprays

Like antihistamine medication, nasal sprays are available over the counter. Options include fluticasone nasal spray, cromolyn nasal spray and antihistamine nasal sprays.

Asthma medications

Your healthcare provider may recommend certain asthma medications like inhaled or oral bronchodilators, inhaled steroids or oral antileukotrienes.

Immunotherapy

Allergy shots may be used if over-the-counter medications and/or prescription medications aren’t working. Your healthcare provider delivers a small amount of allergens through a shot, progressively increasing the dosage with each shot.

Nasal saline irrigation

Another over-the-counter solution is using a neti pot. This device sends a saline solution through your nasal passages, clearing out mucus and allergens along the way.

Follow-Up Care

Your allergy symptoms can range from mild to severe. Finding out what’s causing your allergic reaction is the first step to managing your care. Next, your healthcare provider will work with you to make sure your treatment plan — which may include medications and lifestyle changes — is providing you with the relief you need and want.

It’s important to remember that what may work for one person, may not work for you. There may be some trial and error as you search for the right treatment. But you’re not alone — we’re committed to finding a solution that works for you.

Taking the Next Step

While allergies may not seem like a big deal, they can disrupt your life. You don’t need to live with red, watery eyes, a running nose or constant sneezing. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider today. The experienced, dedicated allergists at Cleveland Clinic are ready to put their expertise to use. Together, we’ll find the right treatment for you so that you can breathe easier.