Should someone at 28 try allergy shots before a sinus CT?

Question

Hello doctor,

My 28-year-old girlfriend has year-round nasal congestion, especially around pets and during spring. Her IgE levels were elevated at 320 IU/mL, and allergy testing showed positive results for dust mite and pollen allergies.

She has been using fluticasone nasal spray and loratadine, but she still feels congested every morning.

Would allergy shots be worth considering in her case, or should she get a sinus CT scan first to check for other possible causes?

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and understand your concern.

Given your girlfriend’s year-round nasal congestion, elevated IgE levels, and positive allergy testing for dust mites and pollens, allergy immunotherapy (allergy shots) can be an effective treatment option worth considering.

Allergy shots work by gradually desensitizing the immune system to allergens and may help reduce symptoms over time rather than only controlling them temporarily with medications.

Since she is already using Fluticasone nasal spray and loratadine but continues to experience persistent congestion, immunotherapy may provide better long-term symptom relief and may also reduce dependence on daily medications.

A sinus CT (computed tomography) scan is generally recommended when there are additional concerns, such as recurrent sinus infections, facial pain, nasal polyps, or suspected structural blockage within the sinuses.

If she does not have these symptoms, considering allergy immunotherapy before imaging is a reasonable approach.

However, if her symptoms worsen or do not improve adequately with treatment, a sinus CT scan can later be considered to rule out other underlying causes. However, it is wise to consult with your consulting doctor for better clarity.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.