West NY News

• There are numerous allergies that can originate from indoor sources.
• Indoor allergens such as mold, dust, and pet dander can be common issues for allergy sufferers.
• An ENT specialist can provide treatment for individuals who may not be aware that they are struggling with allergies in their living space.

Year-round, indoor allergies can pose challenges, particularly in the winter, when you spend more time indoors. Dr. Joseph Capo of Capo Nose & Sinus Center said allergies could be an underlying factor in sinus issues.

"As a healthcare provider, my role is to thoroughly assess the patient's condition and determine the primary contributing factor, whether it's allergies, sinusitis, or a combination of both. The goal is to provide efficient and effective treatment based on the patient's specific needs and underlying factors," Dr. Capo told West NY News.

Allergies stemming from indoor sources are activated by common allergens present in homes or other indoor settings, according to Very Well Health. Mold, dust mites, pet dander, and even cockroaches are among the typical culprits. Managing indoor allergies might prove more challenging than avoiding outdoor allergens, and their impact can be equally debilitating for patients.

To identify indoor allergies, WebMD suggests keeping track of when, where, and what you're doing when your symptoms worsen. Consider whether you were exposed to potential allergens. For instance, did your symptoms escalate following a basement flood, potentially leading to mold growth? Conversely, did your symptoms improve while you were on vacation? Providing this information to your doctor could assist in identifying your allergy triggers.

To diagnose allergies, doctors will review the patient's symptoms and medical history and then recommend either a blood test or a skin test, according to Web MD. For a skin test, the doctor will place a small amount of the allergen on the patient's skin, typically on the forearm or back. If the patient is allergic to that particular allergen, a small, itchy bump will appear.

Dr. Capo is the founder of Capo Nose and Sinus Center, according to the practice's website. Having concluded a five-year residency in otolaryngology-head and neck surgery at Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan, his primary emphasis was on treating individuals with sinus and nasal disorders. He has performed more than 1000 sinus procedures and also carries out septoplasty and Latera nasal valve implant procedures directly in the office setting.