Persistent sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, and sinus pressure can significantly impact your quality of life, especially during peak allergy seasons in Long Island. When over-the-counter medications fail to provide adequate relief, professional allergy testing and immunotherapy offer effective solutions for identifying your specific triggers and building lasting immunity. Dr. Michael Cohen provides comprehensive allergy diagnosis and treatment services at his Syosset and Port Jefferson Station locations, helping patients throughout Nassau and Suffolk County breathe easier and enjoy life without constant allergy symptoms.
I’ve seen Dr. Cohen and staff multiple times for chronic sinus infections. Him and his team are always so helpful! They treat me nicely and always have me leaving knowing I’ll feel better. From start to finish the whole staff have been great.
Our Expertise and Philosophy
Dr. Cohen brings over 20 years of specialized experience in diagnosing and treating allergy-related conditions. As a board-certified otolaryngologist recognized as a Top Doctor by NY Top Docs for 25 consecutive years, he understands the complex interplay between environmental allergies and sinus health.
“My approach to allergies focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes rather than simply masking symptoms,” explains Dr. Cohen. “By precisely identifying specific allergens and developing personalized immunotherapy protocols, we can help patients achieve long-term relief while reducing their dependence on medications.” This philosophy emphasizes comprehensive assessment and tailored treatment plans that address each patient’s unique allergy profile and symptoms.
What Are Allergy Testing and Immunotherapy?
Allergy testing is a diagnostic procedure that identifies specific substances triggering your immune system’s overreaction. These tests measure your body’s response to potential allergens, revealing exactly which substances cause your symptoms, whether they’re seasonal pollens, dust mites, pet dander, molds, or certain foods.
Immunotherapy is a treatment method that gradually builds your body’s tolerance to identified allergens through controlled, increasing exposure. Unlike medications that temporarily relieve symptoms, immunotherapy addresses the underlying immune response for long-lasting results. This can be administered through:
Subcutaneous Immunotherapy: Traditional allergy shots that introduce small amounts of allergens under the skin at regular intervals
Sublingual Immunotherapy: Convenient under-the-tongue tablets or drops that can be administered at home
Both methods work by gradually desensitizing your immune system to specific allergens, reducing or eliminating allergic reactions over time. Most patients experience significant improvement within 3-6 months, with optimal results typically achieved after 3-5 years of consistent treatment.
Common Reasons Patients Seek Professional Allergy Care
Long Island residents commonly seek allergy testing and immunotherapy for:
Persistent Nasal Congestion
That doesn’t respond to over-the-counter medications, making breathing difficult throughout seasonal changes
Recurrent Sinus Infections
That return frequently throughout the year, suggesting underlying allergic inflammation requiring specialized care
Seasonal Symptom Patterns
With predictable flare-ups during specific Long Island pollen seasons that disrupt normal activities
Medication Dependence
With diminishing effectiveness of antihistamines and decongestants over time despite increased dosages
Sleep Disruption
Due to nighttime congestion, postnasal drip, or breathing difficulties that affect daytime functioning
Asthma Management
When allergic triggers worsen asthma symptoms or increase attack frequency despite proper inhaler use
Quality of Life Impact
When allergies interfere with work performance, outdoor activities, or social engagements in Nassau County
Eye Symptoms
Including itching, redness, or excessive tearing that accompany respiratory symptoms and affect visual comfort
Dr. Cohen’s Comprehensive Allergy Management Approach
Dr. Cohen employs a thorough approach to diagnosing and managing allergies:
Detailed Clinical Assessment
Dr. Cohen begins with a thorough review of your symptoms, their timing, potential triggers, previous treatments, and family history of allergies or related conditions.
Comprehensive Physical Examination
A careful examination of your ears, nose, throat, and sinuses helps identify physical signs of allergic inflammation and rule out other conditions that might mimic or complicate allergies.
Advanced Allergy Testing
Based on your symptoms and examination findings, Dr. Cohen may recommend:
- Skin Prick Testing: The gold standard for allergy diagnosis where small amounts of potential allergens are applied to the skin using tiny, virtually painless pricks
- Intradermal Testing: More sensitive follow-up testing for ambiguous skin prick results or when more detailed analysis is needed
- Blood Testing (Specific IgE): Alternative testing for patients who cannot undergo skin testing due to skin conditions or current medication use
Personalized Treatment Planning
Based on your specific allergen sensitivities and symptom profile, Dr. Cohen develops individualized treatment plans that may include:
- Targeted Immunotherapy: Precisely formulated to address your specific allergen sensitivities with protocols adjusted based on your unique response
- Environmental Control Measures: Practical recommendations for reducing allergen exposure in your Long Island home and daily activities
- Medication Management: When appropriate, optimizing prescription medications to complement immunotherapy and provide symptom relief
Ongoing Care Coordination
Dr. Cohen provides regular follow-up care to assess your response to treatment, address any concerns, and make adjustments to your immunotherapy protocol as needed for optimal results.
Is Allergy Evaluation and Treatment Right for You?
You may be an ideal candidate for allergy testing and immunotherapy if you:
Experience Persistent Symptoms
You continue to suffer from allergy symptoms despite using medications regularly or find standard treatments provide inadequate relief.
Notice Seasonal Patterns
Your symptoms predictably worsen during Long Island’s peak pollen seasons and significantly affect your daily routine and activities.
Suffer Multiple Sinus Infections
You experience recurrent sinus infections throughout the year despite appropriate antibiotic treatments or other medical interventions.
Find Allergies Interfering
Your allergies consistently disrupt daily activities, sleep quality, or overall productivity in ways that negatively impact your lifestyle.
Wish to Reduce Medication Use
You’re seeking to decrease your dependence on daily medications and their potential side effects while still maintaining control of allergy symptoms.
Have Family History
You have parents or siblings with allergies or asthma that suggests a genetic predisposition to similar allergic conditions.
Experience Medication Side Effects
You suffer from unwanted side effects from traditional allergy medications that limit their usefulness in managing your symptoms effectively.
During your consultation, Dr. Cohen will thoroughly review your medical history to determine if you have any conditions that might require special consideration before beginning immunotherapy, such as severe asthma, certain immune disorders, or specific cardiovascular conditions.
What to Expect During Your Allergy Evaluation
Your initial allergy assessment with Dr. Cohen typically includes:
Comprehensive Consultation
Dr. Cohen will discuss your allergy symptoms in detail, including when they began, their pattern, and severity. He will also inquire about previous allergy treatments, medication use, and environmental factors that might contribute to your symptoms.
Physical Examination
A thorough examination of your ears, nose, throat, and sinuses will help identify signs of allergic inflammation and rule out other conditions that might be causing or contributing to your symptoms.
Allergy Testing
If indicated, skin prick testing will be performed in our office, typically on your forearm or back. This painless procedure tests for reactions to 40-60 common allergens, with results visible within 15-20 minutes.
Treatment Planning
Based on your test results and clinical assessment, Dr. Cohen will explain your specific allergen sensitivities and recommend appropriate treatment options, including whether immunotherapy would be beneficial for your condition.
What to Expect During Immunotherapy Treatment
If immunotherapy is part of your treatment plan, the process typically follows these stages:
Build-up Phase
Weekly or twice-weekly treatments with gradually increasing allergen concentrations over a period of 3-6 months as your body begins to develop tolerance to identified allergens.
Maintenance Phase
Less frequent treatments (typically monthly) at your established effective dose continued for 3-5 years to reinforce and strengthen your immune system’s adjusted response.
Progress Monitoring
Regular evaluations with Dr. Cohen to assess symptom improvement, address any concerns, and make adjustments to your treatment protocol as needed for optimal results.
Response Evaluation
Throughout treatment, Dr. Cohen tracks your symptom improvement, medication needs, and quality of life measures to ensure the therapy is providing meaningful benefits.
Most patients report noticeable improvement within 3-6 months of beginning immunotherapy, with significant relief by the one-year mark and long-lasting benefits over time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Allergy Testing and Immunotherapy
A typical allergy testing appointment takes approximately 60-90 minutes, including consultation, testing, and discussion of results.
Skin prick testing causes minimal discomfortu002du002dmost patients describe it as a slight prick sensation followed by possible itching at positive reaction sites.
Most patients continue immunotherapy for 3-5 years to achieve lasting benefits. Some patients may require longer treatment depending on their specific allergies and response.
Most insurance plans cover allergy testing and immunotherapy when medically necessary. Our office staff will verify your coverage and discuss any potential costs before beginning treatment.
Yes, allergy testing and immunotherapy are safe and effective for children. Dr. Cohen has extensive experience treating pediatric allergy patients throughout Long Island.
Studies show that approximately 85% of patients experience significant improvement with properly administered immunotherapy, with many achieving complete resolution of their allergy symptoms.
Many patients can gradually reduce or eliminate their allergy medications as immunotherapy takes effect, but this varies by individual. Dr. Cohen will guide you on medication adjustments based on your symptom improvement.
Why Choose Dr. Michael Cohen for Allergy Care
When selecting a physician for allergy evaluation and treatment, specialized expertise offers significant advantages:
- Dr. Cohen is a board-certified otolaryngologist with over 20 years of experience diagnosing and treating complex allergy conditions throughout Long Island.
- His comprehensive approach addresses both allergic symptoms and their impact on sinus health and overall quality of life.
- Using advanced diagnostic capabilities, Dr. Cohen precisely identifies specific allergen triggers causing your symptoms with accuracy and detail.
- His extensive experience with the full range of allergy management strategies ensures you receive the most appropriate treatment for your specific condition.
- Recognition as a Top Doctor by NY Top Docs for 25 consecutive years reflects Dr. Cohen’s commitment to excellence in patient care.
- Current affiliations with prestigious institutions including NYU Langone Health and Northwell Health ensure Dr. Cohen remains at the forefront of advances in allergy treatment.
- Dr. Cohen’s patients particularly value his thorough approach to allergy evaluation and his commitment to finding effective management strategies for even the most challenging allergy conditions affecting Nassau and Suffolk County residents.
Experience Lasting Allergy Relief in Nassau and Suffolk County
Don’t let seasonal or year-round allergies diminish your quality of life. With proper evaluation and treatment at Dr. Cohen’s practice, you can experience significant relief from allergy symptoms and reduce your dependence on daily medications.
With convenient locations in Syosset and Port Jefferson Station, expert allergy care is accessible to residents throughout Long Island. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Cohen and take the first step toward breathing easier and enjoying life without constant allergy symptoms.