If you start sneezing every morning, if your nose runs the moment you dust a shelf, or if a cough hangs on for weeks every October and November, there is a good chance allergy is involved. In Gurgaon, dust, construction, pollen and the winter smog make allergic symptoms very common.
Dr. Sahil Kapoor is a member of the Indian College of Allergy, Asthma and Applied Immunology. He has trained in allergy diagnosis, management and immunotherapy, and sees patients as an allergy specialist in Gurgaon at Ace ENT Care, 238, Sector 5, Gurugram.
What is an allergy?
An allergy happens when the immune system overreacts to something that is usually harmless, such as house dust mite, pollen, mould or pet dander. The body releases histamine and other chemicals, and that causes sneezing, itching, a runny nose and swelling.
Common allergic conditions
- Allergic rhinitis: repeated sneezing, a watery or blocked nose and itching of the nose, eyes or throat. It can be seasonal or present all year round.
- Dust allergy: mostly due to house dust mites that live in mattresses, pillows, carpets and soft toys. Symptoms are often worse in the morning.
- Allergic cough: a dry, tickly cough that lasts for weeks, often worse at night or with cold air. It is commonly due to post-nasal drip or allergy affecting the airways.
- Allergic sinusitis and nasal polyps in some patients.
- Allergic conjunctivitis: red, itchy, watery eyes.
People with allergic rhinitis are also more likely to have asthma or eczema, so treating the nose well often helps the chest too.
Is it allergy or a cold?
A cold usually lasts a week or so and may come with a mild fever and body ache. Allergy has no fever, lasts as long as you are exposed to the trigger, and often comes with itching. If you seem to have a "cold" for months, it is very likely allergy. For more on the difference, read our blog on seasonal allergy symptoms.
Allergy test in Gurgaon
Finding the trigger makes treatment much more effective. The main tests are:
- Skin prick test: tiny amounts of common allergens are placed on the forearm with a light prick. Results are ready in about 15–20 minutes. Antihistamines need to be stopped for a few days before the test, so please check with the clinic first.
- Blood test (specific IgE): useful when skin testing is not possible, for example in people with skin conditions or those who can't stop medicines.
- Nasal endoscopy: to look for polyps, a deviated septum or other problems that can make allergy symptoms worse.
Allergic rhinitis treatment
Treatment usually works in three steps:
- Reducing exposure: covering mattresses and pillows with mite-proof covers, washing bedding in hot water weekly, keeping soft toys and carpets to a minimum, and keeping windows closed on high-pollen or high-pollution days.
- Medicines: steroid nasal sprays (which work well when used daily and with the right technique), non-drowsy antihistamines, saline rinses and, in some cases, other tablets. These are safe for long-term use under supervision.
- Treating structural problems: a badly deviated septum or large turbinates can be corrected surgically if they keep the nose blocked despite good allergy control. See septoplasty.
Immunotherapy for allergy
Medicines control symptoms, but they don't change the allergy itself. Allergen immunotherapy does. Small, gradually increasing doses of the allergen are given, either as injections (SCIT) or as drops or tablets under the tongue (SLIT). Over time, the immune system becomes less sensitive.
Immunotherapy is considered for people with confirmed allergy who still have significant symptoms despite medicines, or who want to reduce long-term medicine use. A typical course lasts three to five years. It needs commitment, but many patients find the long-term benefit worthwhile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can allergies be cured permanently?
Allergies can't always be cured, but they can be well controlled. Immunotherapy can reduce sensitivity in the long term for suitable patients.
Are steroid nasal sprays safe for long-term use?
Modern steroid nasal sprays act mainly inside the nose, and very little enters the bloodstream. They are generally safe for long-term use when used as prescribed.
Do I need to stop medicines before an allergy test?
Antihistamines usually need to be stopped a few days before a skin prick test. Don't stop asthma medicines without medical advice.
What does an allergy test or immunotherapy cost?
The cost depends on the number of allergens tested and the type of immunotherapy. You will get the details at the consultation.
Is allergy treatment covered under insurance?
OPD consultations and allergy tests are covered only under some insurance policies. Please check your policy. If surgery is needed, it is usually covered.
Book a consultation
Call +91-8178774813 or use the appointment page. Please mention if you are taking antihistamines, so the test can be planned.
Clinic Location
238, Sector 5, Gurugram, Haryana 122001
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
