How are Allergies Diagnosed?

What to expect at your first allergy visit at Advanced ENT and Allergy in Newport News, VA

If you're suffering from sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy eyes, or post-nasal drip, you may be wondering whether allergies are the cause—and how to find out for sure. At Advanced ENT and Allergy in Newport News, VA, Dr. Timothy Queen and his team take a personalized, comprehensive approach to diagnosing and managing allergies.

Here’s what to expect when you come in for an allergy evaluation. 

Step 1: Thorough ENT Examination

Your visit begins with a careful examination of your ears, nose, and throat to check for physical signs of allergies. Dr. Queen or his Certified Nurse Practitioner – Erica Cherry - may identify:

• Swollen nasal passages (nasal mucosa)
• Mucus buildup in the nose or post-nasal drip
• Enlarged turbinate’s (the bony structures inside your nose)
• Structural abnormalities like a deviated septum or enlarged tonsils

These findings help distinguish allergy-related nasal congestion from other causes and lay the groundwork for a personalized care plan. 

Step 2: A Close Look at Your Symptoms

Next, Dr. Queen will discuss your allergy symptoms in detail. Common allergy symptoms include:

• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sneezing
• Itchy eyes, nose, or throat
• Fatigue
• Cough or wheezing

Often, the pattern of symptoms is enough to strongly suggest an allergic cause. While Dr. Queen may already suspect allergies based on your exam and symptoms, the next step is confirming what exactly you’re allergic to—and how severely. 

Step 3: Trial of Allergy Medications

Depending on your history, Dr. Queen may recommend over-the-counter or prescription allergy medications to control your symptoms. These can include antihistamines, nasal sprays, or decongestants. For some patients, this may be enough to find relief.

However, if symptoms persist or you prefer to identify the root cause rather than rely on daily medications, allergy testing may be the next step.

Step 4: In-Office Allergy Testing

Most patients will benefit from skin testing, which is performed right in the office and is generally the most accurate way to identify specific allergens. In certain cases, blood tests may be recommended instead.

Skin testing helps determine:

• What allergens (such as pollen, mold, dust mites, or pet dander) you're reacting to
• How strong your allergic response is

This vital information helps guide your long-term treatment options.

Step 5: A Personalized Allergy Treatment Plan

Once your test results are back, Dr. Queen will go over them with you and create a customized treatment strategy, which may include:

• Continued use or adjustment of medications
• Allergy immunotherapy (allergy shots or drops) to help retrain your immune system
• Surgical options if structural issues are contributing to your symptoms

Every plan is tailor-made to fit your specific needs and lifestyle, whether you're seeking seasonal relief or long-term allergy control.

Struggling with allergies in Newport News? Let’s get to the root of the problem.

At Advanced ENT and Allergy, Dr. Timothy Queen, his Certified Nurse Practitioner, Erica Cherry, and the entire team is committed to helping patients understand their allergies and find lasting relief. If you’re ready to stop guessing and start feeling better, schedule your allergy evaluation today.

Get relief with a personalized plan. You can call us or request an appointment by visiting https://www.entallergy1.com/ 

Serving patients in Newport News, VA and surrounding areas