In our latest podcast episode, we had the privilege of sitting down with Dr. Manan Shah, an ENT specialist with a focus on allergy management, to explore the profound connection between allergies, TMJ, and orofacial development. We also shared personal updates and patient experiences that shed light on the critical role allergies play in our overall health.
Patient Experiences and Treatment Strategies
Dr. George shared a compelling case involving a patient struggling with severe ear ringing and anxiety. Through the use of SPG blocks, she was able to offer significant relief, demonstrating the importance of a tailored treatment plan. Dr. Priya also discussed her increasing use of DTR (Disclusion Time Reduction) therapy, a technique that has proven beneficial for her patients, and sought advice from Dr. Ben Sutter on how to integrate it more effectively. These experiences set the stage for introducing Dr. Shah, who brings a wealth of expertise in managing allergies.
Introducing Windley: Telehealth Allergy Treatment
Dr. Shah introduced us to Windley, his innovative telehealth practice that specializes in allergy testing and treatment. He explained that allergies are not just limited to the respiratory system but have a direct impact on the nose, mouth, and airway. For this reason, collaboration between ENT specialists and neuromuscular dentists is crucial to provide comprehensive care. At Windley, Dr. Shah and his team focus on allergy desensitization through sublingual immunotherapy (allergy drops), a method that customizes treatment to each patient’s specific allergies.
A Personal Experience with Immunotherapy
Dr. Shah shared a personal story about his severe cat allergies and how he turned to sublingual immunotherapy for relief. His experience motivated him to offer this treatment to his patients. Unlike antihistamines, which offer only temporary relief, immunotherapy retrains the immune system to produce blocking antibodies, providing long-term reduction in allergic reactions. Dr. Shah’s journey with immunotherapy not only shaped his practice but also helped him treat his daughter’s jaw issues with the use of an expander, demonstrating how allergies can affect orofacial development.
The Benefits of Sublingual Immunotherapy
One of the highlights of our conversation with Dr. Shah was the detailed comparison between allergy shots and sublingual immunotherapy. Sublingual immunotherapy, delivered through allergy drops, offers a more convenient and accessible treatment option, especially for busy families. Dr. Shah emphasized that Windley’s telehealth approach allows them to test and treat patients across all 50 states, making allergy care more personalized and effective than ever before.
Allergies in Children: Early Intervention Matters
Dr. Shah stressed the importance of beginning allergy treatment early, especially for children. Windley starts treating allergies in children as young as five years old, understanding that untreated allergies can lead to more severe health issues like asthma. Dr. Priya and Dr. Shah also discussed how untreated allergies can affect the development of the mouth and jaw, contributing to TMJ and other orofacial issues.
Tailored Allergy Management Based on Region
We also delved into how regional variations in allergens can impact patients’ treatment plans. Dr. Shah noted that while Denver sees a mix of mountain cedar and ragweed allergens, the Pacific Northwest experiences high mold allergies due to the region’s humidity. This emphasizes the need for tailored allergy management strategies based on where patients live.
Conclusion
At Dr. Mistry’s practice, we understand that health is interconnected. Allergies don’t just affect your nose and throat; they can have a significant impact on your jaw, mouth, and overall well-being. By working alongside specialists like Dr. Shah, we are able to offer a more comprehensive approach to care that takes into account the vital connection between allergies, TMJ, and orofacial development. If you’re struggling with allergies, TMJ, or orofacial issues, consider reaching out for a personalized treatment plan. Together, we can help you find lasting relief and improve your overall quality of life.
