What is Hay Fever?
The medical term for hay fever is allergic rhinitis, an allergic reaction that can occur because of various allergens that aren’t limited to pollen. That makes allergy testing critical if you think you might have hay fever. The term “Hay Fever” was first used by physician John Bostock in a paper he wrote and read…
How Sinus Issues and Dental Problems Are Related
Did you know that dental issues could be the root cause of some sinus problems? More than 40% of sinus infections in the maxillary sinuses, the air-filled spaces located behind your cheeks and above your upper teeth, originate as a dental infection. For patients dealing with sinus discomfort, understanding this connection can be key to…
What to Know About Earwax Impaction (Linked to Chronic Ear Pain)
Earwax, medically known as cerumen, plays a crucial role in protecting your ears. Produced naturally by glands in the ear canal, this waxy substance traps dust, debris and other small particles before they can reach the inner parts of the ear. It also has antibacterial properties and helps maintain proper moisture levels within the ear…
Allergist, Dr. Cristina Pratt to depart Blue Ridge ENT
Dear patients, I want to share with you that I have made the difficult decision to resign from my position at Blue Ridge Allergy and Immunology Associates, effective September 1, 2025. I truly regret that I am unable to accept any new patients or schedule additional appointments before my departure, as my calendar is now…
What to Expect During a Vertigo Evaluation
Vertigo is a sensation in which the environment around you is spinning, leading to a feeling of dizziness or being off-balance. It’s not its own condition, but instead a symptom of another medical condition. If these episodes are frequent or severe, a medical evaluation is the best way to determine the cause and find effective…
What to do About Flying and Ear Pain with Infants
Traveling with an infant can be a challenge, and when you add ear pain caused by air pressure changes, it can make flying even more challenging. Many adults even experience discomfort in their ears when flying, but can ease it by often swallowing, yawning or chewing gum. This may leave you wondering how to assist…
Ear Pain Without Infection: What to Know
Ear pain is often associated with ear infections, but there are many other possible reasons for discomfort in or around the ears. Read along to understand potential causes for ear pain without infection to help you determine the next steps for relief. TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction) The temporomandibular joint connects the jaw to the…
Allergy Office
Mon: 7:30am ‐ 4:00pm Tue: 7:30am ‐ 4:00pm Wed: 7:30am ‐ 6:00pm Thur: 7:30am ‐ 4:00pm Fri: 7:30am ‐ 3:00pm Closed Mon-Thurs from 11:30am – 1:00pm
How ENT Issues Affect Your Rest and What to Do About It
A good night’s sleep is essential for overall health, but many people struggle to get the rest they need due to issues related to the ear, nose, and throat. Conditions such as sleep apnea or snoring can lead to daytime fatigue and long-term health risks. Understanding how these conditions affect rest and what can be…
What Are the Three Types of Sleep Apnea?
If you feel that you consistently get enough sleep at night but still wake up feeling tired, or if your partner complains about your loud snoring, you may be suffering from a condition called sleep apnea. There are three types of sleep apnea, all of which are characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep; however,…