Many people grow accustomed to their allergy symptoms. A runny nose, sneezing, or itching eventually become just part of the routine. As long as everything is „as usual,“ there's rarely a feeling that action is needed. But that's precisely where the risk lies. If allergic symptoms persist over a longer period and are not adequately treated, the reaction can spread further within the body. The airways are then no longer just affected in the nasal passages and sinuses. In this context, experts speak of a so-called "floor change". The symptoms affect deeper areas such as the bronchi – with noticeable consequences for breathing. Anyone who is aware of this development can react early and significantly reduce the risk.

Bei einer Allergie reagiert das Immunsystem übermässig auf eigentlich harmlose Substanzen, sogenannte Allergene. Diese können durch Einatmen, Verschlucken oder Hautkontakt in den Körper gelangen. Wenn ein Allergen in den Körper eindringt, erkennt das Immunsystem es als Bedrohung und produziert Antikörper, sogenannte Immunglobulin E (IgE). Diese IgE-Antikörper binden sich an bestimmte Zellen im Körper, wie beispielsweise Mastzellen und Basophile. Bei erneutem Kontakt mit demselben Allergen binden die Allergene an die IgE-Antikörper, die bereits auf den Zellen sitzen. Dies führt zur Freisetzung von Chemikalien, wie Histamin, aus den Mastzellen und Basophilen. Diese freigesetzten Chemikalien verursachen die typischen Symptome einer allergischen Reaktion. Je nachdem, wo im Körper die Reaktion stattfindet, können die Symptome ganz unterschiedlich aussehen: * **Haut:** Juckreiz, Rötung, Quaddeln, Ekzeme. * **Atemwege:** Niesen, laufende Nase, verstopfte Nase, Husten, Atemnot, pfeifende Atemgeräusche. * **Augen:** Juckende, tränende, rote Augen. * **Verdauungstrakt:** Bauchschmerzen, Übelkeit, Erbrechen, Durchfall. * **Kreislauf:** Bei schweren Reaktionen (Anaphylaxie) kann es zu einem Blutdruckabfall, Kreislaufversagen und Bewusstlosigkeit kommen. Zusammenfassend lässt sich sagen, dass bei einer Allergie eine fehlgeleitete Immunreaktion stattfindet, bei der der Körper auf eigentlich harmlose Stoffe mit einer Entzündungsreaktion reagiert, die durch die Freisetzung von Botenstoffen wie Histamin ausgelöst wird.

The immune system normally differentiates very precisely between harmful and harmless influences. In the case of an allergy, this classification becomes unbalanced. Substances like pollen, house dust mites, or animal hair then act as so-called allergens. They trigger a defence reaction, even though they are actually harmless to the body.

Upon first contact with such an allergen, the body forms special antibodies (immunoglobulin E). These antibodies bind to specific defence cells, which are primarily located in the mucous membranes of the airways and eyes.

If the body re-encounters the allergen later, these cells react immediately. They release messenger substances like histamine. This causes blood vessels to widen, mucous membranes to swell, and increased secretion to occur. Typical symptoms such as sneezing, a Runny nose, Itching or watery eyes occur.

What does a floor change mean for an allergy?

A change of floor is spoken of when allergic symptoms spread from the upper airways to the deeper areas. Initially, the symptoms mainly affect the nose and eyes. In the further course, the bronchi can also be involved.

This not only changes where the complaints manifest, but also their nature. In addition to typical allergy symptoms, coughs, breathing difficulties, or a feeling of tightness in the chest are becoming increasingly common.

Not every allergy develops in this direction. However, certain factors increase the risk of the symptoms spreading:

An "allergic shift" particularly often occurs in allergic respiratory diseases, such as pollen allergies.Hay fever) or a dust mite allergy.

This development rarely affects other forms of allergies, such as food allergies or contact allergies, as other organ systems are primarily involved in these cases.

Changing floors with allergies: what signs should you take seriously?

Especially with existing allergies, it's worth looking more closely at seemingly unrelated symptoms.

Above all, pay attention to the following instructions:

Many of these signs are initially attributed to other causes and therefore not associated with the existing allergy.

What consequences can changing floors have?

When the complaints spread from the upper to the lower airways, the nature of the illness changes significantly. The symptoms then no longer occur only intermittently, but can become independent.

These changes are increasingly impacting daily life. Physical exertion is becoming more difficult. Even simple activities can become tiring more quickly.

A central consequence is the development of allergic asthma. The airways are hypersensitive and repeatedly constrict. This reduces the amount of air entering the lungs, which can lead to shortness of breath, coughing fits, and wheezing. In severe cases, strong asthma attacks occur, which can become very distressing and uncomfortable.

The bronchi can also become inflamed more easily. Bronchitis then occurs more frequently, which can also persist for longer with continuous irritation.

How can a change of floor be prevented with an allergy?

An allergic disease cannot always be avoided, but its course can often be influenced.

A key step is in the accurate Diagnose, because: Only when it is known which allergens trigger the reaction can the treatment be tailored accordingly. This helps to prevent the allergy from spreading further into the lower airways.

In our ENT clinic in Frankfurt we offer various options for a careful Allergy diagnostics to.

Building on this, therapy plays a central role:

Regular medical check-ups at our ENT practice clinic in Frankfurt also help to keep an eye on the progression of the condition and to adjust treatment if necessary. This significantly reduces the risk of the symptoms spreading.

When you should seek medical advice

Not every change requires immediate treatment. However, there are situations where you should have complaints medically investigated.

These include, in particular:

Early assessment helps to actively influence the course of events.

Preventing a change of floors: Diagnosis and treatment of allergies in Frankfurt

Many sufferers get used to their ailments and accept them as „normal“ over time. However, this is precisely where the risk lies, as gradual developments often go unnoticed.

A conscious approach to one's own symptoms and early clarification help to actively influence the course and prevent possible follow-up steps in good time.

We at the HNO-Praxisklinik Goethe10 are experts in allergy diagnostics and treatment for Frankfurt and the surrounding area. Feel free to book an Date with us!

The nose runs more and more often, the eyes burn after cuddling with the four-legged friend, and the cough lingers persistently. What initially seems harmless develops into a recurring pattern over time. At some point, a thought arises that many pet owners try to suppress for as long as possible: Am I allergic to my own pet? The diagnosis involves not only medical questions but also emotional ones. For many people, their pet is naturally part of the family. This makes a nuanced assessment all the more important. A pet hair allergy does not automatically lead to separation from the animal. Precise diagnostics, a realistic assessment of the symptoms, and an individually tailored therapy concept are crucial. What options exist and when a change is actually necessary, you will learn in the following.

Eine Tierhaarallergie (auch Tierhaarallergie genannt) ist eine allergische Reaktion auf Proteine, die in den Hautschuppen, dem Speichel oder dem Urin von Tieren enthalten sind, nicht aber auf die Haare selbst.

An animal hair allergy is a type of so-called inhalation allergy. This means that the allergenic substances enter the body via the air. They spread throughout the room, are inhaled, and also come into contact with the mucous membranes of the nose and eyes, where they trigger the allergic reaction. Typical symptoms include:

• Repeated sneezing
• Allergic rhinitis with constantly running nose and/or impaired nasal breathing
• Itchy nose and throat
• Red, watery or itchy eyes
• Pressure sensation in the sinus area
• Tickle in the throat
• Wheezing or shortness of breath

Pet allergy: What exactly does the body react to?

It's not the hair itself that causes the discomfort. Proteins released by animals through saliva, dander, sebum, or urine are responsible. These tiny particles cling to the fur, detach during everyday activities, and remain in the air or house dust for a long time.

For cats, the allergen Fel d 1, for example, plays an important role. Dogs produce several different allergens, such as Can f 1 or Can f 2. Horses, rabbits, guinea pigs, and hamsters also release their own characteristic proteins. The composition differs depending on the animal species and sometimes even between individual breeds.

If these particles come into contact with the mucous membranes of the nose or eyes, or enter the airways, the immune system of sensitised individuals reacts excessively. It forms specific IgE antibodies against the respective allergen. Upon re-exposure, these antibodies bind to the substance and trigger the release of inflammatory mediators such as histamine.

Histamine, among other things, widens blood vessels, increases mucus production, and irritates nerve endings. This causes the typical allergy symptoms.

The diagnosis of an animal hair allergy is carried out as follows:

If an animal hair allergy is suspected, please book an appointment with us ENT clinic in Frankfurt. In the anamnesis interview, we will clarify when and in which situations your symptoms occur. The temporal connection to contact with dogs, cats, or other animals is crucial. We also include pre-existing conditions such as asthma or other allergies in the assessment.

Subsequently, we will examine your nasal lining and assess if there are typical signs of an allergic reaction. To confirm this specific allergy tests. A skin test reveals within minutes whether your immune system is reacting to specific animal allergens. A blood test can also detect specific IgE antibodies.

It is the interplay of symptoms, examination, and test results that enables a reliable diagnosis and forms the basis for further action.

Untreated pet dander allergy: What are the possible consequences?

If an animal hair allergy remains untreated, the symptoms can gradually worsen. Initially, there are often only mild symptoms such as sneezing or red eyes. However, with continued exposure to the allergens, the immune system often becomes increasingly sensitive in many cases.

Many affected individuals develop chronic inflammation of the nasal mucous membranes. Nasal breathing becomes difficult, the sense of smell can diminish, and recurring Sinusitis occur. Sleep also suffers from a permanently blocked nose.

There is also the risk of so-called "stage-jumping". In this case, the allergic inflammation spreads from the upper airways to the bronchi. This can lead to the development of allergic asthma, for example. Typical signs include persistent coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or a feeling of tightness in the chest, especially when in direct contact with the animal or in rooms where animal allergens have accumulated.

Early diagnosis and consistent treatment prevent deterioration in many cases. Anyone who notices persistent symptoms should have them clarified by a specialist to avoid long-term consequences.

Do you have to give the animal away?

Many affected people ask themselves this question immediately after diagnosis. There is no one-size-fits-all answer. The deciding factors are the severity of your symptoms, whether the lower airways are already involved, and how well the symptoms can be treated.

In cases of mild to moderate symptoms, cohabitation can often be continued under certain conditions. These include consistent medical treatment, allergen-reducing measures in the home, and clear rules for daily life, such as pet-free sleeping areas.

The situation changes if allergic asthma develops or severe breathing difficulties occur. In such cases, prolonged exposure can pose health risks. We should then carefully weigh up what is medically justifiable in a joint discussion.

Treating pet hair allergies: What's possible?

The treatment is based on the severity of your symptoms and whether only the upper airways or the bronchi are also affected. The aim is to control symptoms and prevent deterioration. The following options are available:

Keep a pet with a pet hair allergy? Final assessment

A pet means closeness, joy, and often many years of shared history. For many people, a dog, cat, or other animal is a natural part of the family. Consequently, a diagnosis of a pet hair allergy can be very distressing.

We take this emotional dimension very seriously. Our aim is to find solutions with you that protect your health and, where medically justifiable, enable you to continue living with your pet. We will examine all therapeutic options and advise you on sensible measures for daily life.

However, if persistent breathing difficulties, developing asthma or other serious health consequences are to be expected, we must re-evaluate the situation. In some cases, the circumstances can be adapted. In others, separation from the animal may represent the safer long-term decision.

We don't make this assessment hastily, but individually and with the necessary empathy.

Treating pet dander allergies in Frankfurt: We at the HNO-Praxisklinik Goethe10 are here for you!

Our team has many years of experience in the diagnosis and treatment of allergic diseases, including pet dander allergy.

If you are suffering from corresponding complaints or wish for clarity, please feel free to arrange a Date.

Many people with allergies resort to pills or tablets to treat their symptoms. Nasal sprays. The symptoms subside - but only in the short term, as the incorrect reaction of the immune system still remains. This is precisely where immunotherapy for allergies comes in. It tackles the allergic reaction at its source and gradually acclimatises your body to the triggering allergen. We explain below for whom this method is suitable.

Your immune system in alarm mode: what happens in the body when you have an allergy?

An allergy occurs when your immune system categorises harmless substances as a threat. Pollen, house dust mites or certain foods then trigger a defence reaction. Your body reacts hypersensitively - often to even the smallest amounts of the trigger.

When you first come into contact with the allergen, your immune system produces special IgE-type antibodies. These antibodies attach themselves to so-called mast cells. If contact occurs again, the antibodies immediately recognise the allergen. The mast cells then release messenger substances such as histamine.

Histamine dilates the blood vessels, increases mucus production and irritates nerve endings.

Typical consequences are

• Allergic rhinitis with constantly running nose and/or impaired nasal breathing
• Itchy eyes or skin
• Frequent sneezing
• Swelling of the mucous membranes
• Breathing difficulties
• Skin reactions such as wheals

Not every allergy is the same: an overview of the most important forms

Allergies can be differentiated according to their trigger. Common forms are

Symptoms under control - but the problem remains: Why do classic anti-allergic drugs not eliminate the cause of symptoms?

Antihistamines, nasal sprays containing cortisone or eye drops usually relieve acute symptoms reliably. They block messenger substances such as histamine or slow down the inflammatory reaction in the mucous membrane. Sneezing, itching and swelling are reduced.

However, the actual malfunction of the immune system remains. Your body continues to categorise the allergen as a threat and reacts again the next time it comes into contact with it. The medication therefore controls the symptoms, but does not change the underlying immune response.

What's more, those who treat exclusively symptomatically over a longer period of time often experience an increase in symptoms. From a Hay fever can, for example, lead to the development of allergic asthma (keyword: Floor change).

Not just slowing down, but reprogramming: Why does immunotherapy work for allergies?

Specific immunotherapy starts where the allergic reaction arises: in the misguided learning process of your immune system. Instead of blocking the messenger substances released, it changes the way your body evaluates the allergen.

Repeated, controlled administration of the triggering substance gradually acclimatises your immune system to it. The excessive IgE-mediated defence reaction decreases. At the same time, regulatory mechanisms that support the development of tolerance are promoted. As a result, your body reacts less violently or, ideally, remains symptom-free.

This approach influences the course of the disease in the long term. Many patients require less acute medication over time. It also reduces the risk of a change of stage and the allergy spreading.

Immunotherapy for allergies: What options are there?

Different treatment models are available depending on the allergen, symptoms and individual situation.

In our ENT clinic in Frankfurt we offer you the following measures:

Specific immunotherapy in Frankfurt: treatment for allergies for a better quality of life

Immunotherapy retrains your immune system - it not only alleviates the symptoms, but also changes the way it reacts. For many sufferers, this opens up the possibility of reducing symptoms in the long term and reducing the need for acute medication.

Whether it's pollen, house dust mites or insect venom: a careful Diagnostics forms the basis for a customised therapy concept. We check whether specific immunotherapy makes sense for you, clarify any unanswered questions and provide you with structured support throughout the entire course of treatment.

Arrange your appointment now Date!

If you constantly have to blow your nose, your eyes itch and sneezing attacks seem to come out of nowhere, you may initially assume that you have a flu-like infection. However, there is often something else behind these symptoms, namely an overreaction of the immune system. The body categorises harmless substances such as pollen, house dust mites or animal hair as a danger and reacts with an inflammation of the nasal mucosa. Allergic rhinitis accompanies many patients for years. It occurs seasonally or all year round and can be very stressful. In the following, we will show you what treatment options are available to help you feel better again.

What is allergic rhinitis?

Allergic rhinitis describes an overreaction of the immune system to normally unproblematic environmental substances. The nasal mucosa becomes inflamed as soon as the body comes into contact with the triggering allergen.

How is allergic rhinitis diagnosed?

If you suffer from recurring sneezing attacks, a blocked nose or watery eyes, you should look for the cause in our ENT clinic in Frankfurt should be clarified. Careful diagnosis forms the basis for effective treatment. It proceeds as follows:

No test alone provides a reliable diagnosis. We always interpret the results in conjunction with the symptoms and medical history. This is the only way we can guarantee a precise allergological classification.

How can allergic rhinitis be treated?

The Therapy is based on three central pillars. The aim is to alleviate symptoms, reduce contact with triggers and influence the overreaction of the immune system in the long term.

Allergic rhinitis: Treatment in Frankfurt

Recurring symptoms such as sneezing, blocked nose or watery eyes should be checked by a doctor. A precise Diagnostics shows which allergens trigger your symptoms and which therapy makes sense for you.

Our ENT clinic in Frankfurt offers you modern test procedures and customised treatment options.
Arrange your Date, get advice and regain more freedom in your everyday life!

A slight itch, a brief tickle - and suddenly your attention is focussed entirely on your ear. The sensation usually passes quickly, but sometimes it persists or returns again and again. The reasons for this are as varied as the sensation itself: from dry skin and allergic reactions to inflammation of the ear canal. It's worth taking a closer look, because the ear is more sensitive than you might think.

Where in the ear can itching occur?

A scratching sensation can occur in various areas of the ear.

It most frequently affects the outer part, i.e. the auricle and the external auditory canal. The auricle consists of elastic cartilage covered by a thin skin. This skin continues at the entrance to the ear canal and remains particularly sensitive there.

The external auditory canal is slightly curved inwards and ends at the eardrum, which forms the seal to the middle ear. Its skin has fine hairs and special glands that produce earwax. If its composition or quantity changes, this can easily lead to itching or irritation.

Deeper in the ear - i.e. at the eardrum or in the middle ear - there are hardly any nerve fibres that could trigger itching. Sensations from these areas are therefore usually perceived as diffuse tingling or deep-seated itching, although they originate in the outer ear.

What are the causes of itching in the ear?

Tingling in the ear occurs when the sensitive skin in the ear canal or on the outer ear is irritated. This can manifest itself as stinging, deep-seated tickling or an unpleasant feeling of tension. Some people feel as if there is "something stuck in their ear" that they cannot reach. There are many triggers for this:

Itching in the ear at night

If the itching occurs mainly at night, those affected find it particularly annoying. At night, the ear becomes more quiet - ambient noise is absent and stimuli are perceived more intensely. This also makes a slight tingling or tickling sensation in the ear more noticeable.

In many cases, dry skin or slight irritation of the ear canal is the cause. Allergies, for example to bed linen materials, care products or house dust mites, can also increase the itching.

Itchy ear: when is a visit to the ENT doctor advisable?

Occasional itching in the ear is usually harmless and disappears by itself after a short time. However, if the discomfort becomes more severe or is associated with other symptoms, you should make an appointment at our ENT clinic in Frankfurt so that we can get to the bottom of the cause. Typical warning signs for which a visit to the doctor is recommended are

• persistent or frequently recurring itching that lasts longer than a few days
• Pain, burning or pressure in the ear
• Oozing, redness or swelling of the ear canal or pinna
• Discharge of fluid or pus from the ear
• Hearing losscrackling or dull feeling in the ear
• Odour development from the ear canal
• Itching after an injury or after contact with water while swimming

People with skin diseases, allergies or diabetes should also seek medical advice at an early stage if itching persists, as their skin often reacts more sensitively and infections develop more easily.

Itchy ear: How does the examination at the ENT doctor proceed?

To find the cause of your itchy ear, we take a step-by-step approach at our ENT clinic in Frankfurt:

This systematic examination usually allows the cause of the itching to be quickly localised and treated in a targeted manner.

How can itching in the ear be treated?

Treatment always depends on the cause of the itching. At our ENT clinic in Frankfurt, we take the time to determine the exact cause and tailor the treatment to it.

• For dry skin, we recommend moisturising oils or nourishing ear drops that soothe the skin and restore its natural protective function.
• If an inflammation is present, we treat it - depending on the findings - with anti-inflammatory, antibiotic or antifungal drops to effectively eliminate germs.
• We gently remove earwax deposits under visual control so that the ear canal is clear again and the skin can heal.
• Allergic reactions usually improve if the triggering substance is avoided. In addition, anti-allergic medication or ointments can help to alleviate the irritation.
• We treat accompanying skin diseases in close consultation with dermatologists in order to optimally coordinate the therapy.

We can also advise you on how best to care for your ears in everyday life - for example, by cleaning them moderately, avoiding cotton buds and protecting them from excessive moisture. This will help prevent irritation and maintain the natural balance in the ear in the long term.

Treat itching in the ear in Frankfurt

In some cases, itchy ears are not a harmless nuisance, but a signal from your body. With the right diagnosis and treatment, symptoms can often be alleviated quickly. We are here for you!

Sneezing fits, itchy eyes and a blocked or constantly runny nose - many people are familiar with these symptoms, but the cause often remains unclear. Is it a cold or is there an allergy behind it? A targeted allergy test at the ENT can provide certainty. Modern diagnostic procedures make it possible to precisely identify triggers and initiate appropriate treatment. Below we explain how the tests work - and what they can tell you.

What are the basic types of allergies?

Allergies can be categorised into different types, depending on which substances trigger the reaction and how the symptoms manifest themselves. The most important allergy types are

Pollen allergy (hay fever)

• Triggered by pollen from grasses, trees and herbs
• Typical symptoms: Sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, blocked or runny nose

House dust mite allergy

• Reaction to the excretions of house dust mites
• Symptoms occur more frequently in the morning, as mites are found in mattresses and upholstered furniture
• Frequent complaints: Sneezing, blocked nose, breathing problems

Animal hair allergy

• Caused by proteins in hair, dander, saliva or urine of animals (cats, dogs, rodents, horses)
• Symptoms: Respiratory irritation, skin rashes, itchy eyes

Mould allergy

• Physical reaction to mould spores in damp rooms or in nature
• Symptoms: similar to hay fever, often with additional breathing difficulties

Food allergy

• Immune system reacts to certain proteins in food
• Common triggers: nuts, milk, eggs, fish, soya, gluten
• Complaints: Skin reactions, gastrointestinal complaints, shortness of breath and even anaphylactic shock

Insect venom allergy

• Reaction to stings from bees, wasps, hornets or mosquitoes
• Possible consequences: Severe swelling, circulatory problems or even allergic shock

Contact allergy (contact dermatitis)

• Occurs on direct skin contact with allergenic substances
• Common triggers: nickel, latex, fragrances, preservatives
• Symptoms: redness, itching, blistering

Drug allergy

• Hypersensitivity to certain medications
• Symptoms: vary from skin rashes to severe circulatory reactions

Sun allergy (light dermatosis)

• Overreaction of the skin to UV radiation
• Symptoms: itchy reddening of the skin, blisters or wheals after sun exposure

Allergy test: When should you do one?

An allergy test is useful if there are recurring symptoms whose cause is unclear. Clarification is particularly important if symptoms occur more frequently in certain situations or seasons.

Here are some typical signs and situations in which an allergy test is recommended:

Persistent or seasonal complaints

• Frequent sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, a blocked or Runny nose without recognisable Cold
• Symptoms mainly occur in spring or summer (indication of a pollen allergy)

Respiratory problems

• Regular breathlessness, wheezing or persistent coughing may indicate allergic asthma
• Symptoms worsen in certain environments (e.g. in contact with house dust, animals or mould)

Skin reactions without recognisable cause

• Itching, redness, eczema or hives after contact with certain substances or foods

Suspicion of food allergies

• Stomach pain, nausea, diarrhoea or skin reactions after eating certain foods
• Sudden swelling in the mouth and throat after eating

Recurring complaints indoors

• Symptoms intensify in the home or at night (indication of a house dust mite or mould allergy)
• Complaints occur more frequently after contact with pets

An early allergy test can help to identify the trigger and provide targeted treatment. This can alleviate symptoms and prevent more severe reactions.

Allergy test at the ENT: How we can help you at our practice clinic in Frankfurt

Using specific tests, we can diagnose various allergies and identify their triggers. Our focus is on early diagnosis in order to prevent serious developments such as allergic reactions. Floor change - prevent the transition of an untreated allergy into bronchial asthma.

Allergy testing options at our ENT clinic in Frankfurt:

After the allergy test at the ENT: treatment options for allergies

The treatment of allergies aims to alleviate symptoms and prevent the disease from progressing. The therapy often includes antihistamines or cortisone preparations to alleviate the symptoms. Another option is immunotherapy, in which your immune system is gradually acclimatised to the allergen in order to reduce the readiness to react.

You can find out more here: Allergy treatment in Frankfurt

Simply contact us to arrange an appointment!

Sneezing and a congested or Constantly runny nose - typical symptoms that plague many people, especially in spring and autumn. However, it is not always immediately clear whether they are caused by a cold or hay fever, i.e. an allergic reaction. It is important to make the right distinction, as this determines the appropriate treatment. While a harmless infection usually subsides after a short time, allergic symptoms can persist for weeks or recur repeatedly, significantly reducing quality of life. But how can you recognise what exactly triggers the symptoms? A closer look at the symptoms and their progression provides information.

Hay fever vs. the common cold: what you need to know

Hay fever (also: allergic rhinitis)

Hay fever is an overreaction of the immune system to harmless substances such as pollen from trees, grasses or herbs. As soon as these allergens come into contact with the mucous membranes, the body releases more Histamine a messenger substance that triggers typical symptoms such as sneezing, itching, a runny or blocked nose and watery eyes.

The symptoms occur seasonally when the respective plants are in bloom. In the case of year-round allergic rhinitis, other allergens such as house dust mites or animal dander can also be the cause. If left untreated, hay fever can severely impair quality of life and in some cases lead to chronic symptoms or asthma.

Cold and sniffles

A cold is an infection of the upper respiratory tract caused by viruses, typically accompanied by symptoms such as a sore throat, cough, runny nose, headache, aching limbs and sometimes fever. It is usually transmitted by droplet or smear infection and usually heals on its own within one to two weeks. A cold can be caused by various viruses, such as rhinoviruses or adenoviruses.
A cold (rhinitis) is one of the most common symptoms of a cold. In the case of a viral infection, the nasal mucous membrane swells, produces increased secretions and can cause both a blocked nose as well as nasal discharge. This is usually clear at first and often becomes thicker as the cold progresses.

Hay fever or a cold: how to recognise what you have

As hay fever and a cold are similar in their symptoms, it can sometimes be difficult to distinguish between them. However, some characteristics can help to identify what is behind the symptoms:

Type and duration of symptoms

• Hay fever
  The symptoms occur suddenly and persist for as long as the contact with allergens lasts - often for weeks or months.
• Cold
  The symptoms usually develop gradually and subside after about one to two weeks.

Nasal discharge and sneezing

• Hay fever
  The nose usually runs with a clear, watery secretion. Severe sneezing attacks often occur.
• Cold
  The nasal discharge is initially clear, but often becomes thicker and yellowish or greenish as the illness progresses. A sneeze occurs in the early stages of a cold and is a natural reaction of the body to remove pathogens from the airways.

Accompanying complaints

• Hay fever
  Severe itching in the nose, eyes and sometimes also in the throat is typical. Watery, reddened eyes are common. Fever does not occur.
• Cold
  A sore throat, cough and sometimes fever are often present. Itching, on the other hand, is atypical.

Influence of the environment

• Hay fever
  The symptoms worsen on contact with pollen, for example outdoors or with an open window. The symptoms usually improve indoors or in the rain.
• Cold
  The symptoms remain the same regardless of the environment.

Reaction to antiallergic drugs

• Hay fever
  Antihistamines usually relieve the symptoms quickly.
• Cold
  Allergy medication has no effect.

Hay fever or a cold: an allergy test can provide clarity

If you are unsure or suffer from discomfort over a longer period of time, you should always seek medical advice. A Allergy test helps with the diagnosis and the initiation of the appropriate treatment.

In our ENT practice clinic Goethe10 in Frankfurt allergy diagnosis is carried out using a combination of a detailed medical history, physical examination and specific tests to identify the allergens that trigger the allergy.

We evaluate the results of all tests in the context of the medical history in order to ensure a precise diagnosis and create a personalised treatment plan.

Diagnosed with hay fever: And now?

If you have been diagnosed with hay fever, there are various treatment options available to alleviate the symptoms and prevent long-term complications such as allergic asthma. The therapy depends on the severity of your symptoms and covers three main areas: Allergen avoidance, medication and hyposensitisation.

Treat hay fever: Symptom-free through the allergy season with your ENT clinic in Frankfurt

Every hay fever is individual - so it's worth working with us to find the optimum treatment strategy. With the right therapy, the allergy season can be much more pleasant for you.

Feel free to contact us to arrange an appointment for diagnostics and counselling!

One blocked nose can have a significant impact on everyday life - be it when sleeping, speaking or simply breathing freely. Many people then turn to nasal sprays, which can provide quick relief. But what happens if the medication doesn't work? There can be various reasons for this. We explain which ones and how we can help you at our ENT practice clinic in Frankfurt.

How a nasal spray works

A nasal spray works in different ways depending on the type and active ingredient. The most common variants are decongestant, moisturising and anti-allergic nasal sprays:

Decongestant nasal sprays (alpha sympathomimetics)

They contain active ingredients such as xylometazoline or oxymetazoline, which can damage the blood vessels in the Nasal mucosa narrow. This causes the mucous membrane to swell, the nasal passages become clear again and breathing becomes easier. These sprays take effect within a few minutes and usually last for several hours.

Moisturising nasal sprays

These sprays use saline or hypertonic salt solutions to keep the mucous membranes moisturised. This is particularly helpful in dry air or with mild infections. They work purely mechanically by loosening mucus and supporting the natural cleansing function of the nose. As they do not contain any decongestants, you can use them long-term without hesitation.

Cortisone-containing or anti-allergic nasal sprays

These sprays are mainly used for allergies or chronic nasal complaints. Preparations containing cortisone reduce inflammation and swelling over a longer period of time, but only take effect after a few days. Anti-allergic nasal sprays often contain antihistamines or mast cell stabilisers, which block allergic reactions directly in the nasal mucosa.

Depending on the symptoms, a different nasal spray may therefore be useful.

What happens if the nasal spray doesn't work?

If a nasal spray no longer works as usual, this can have various causes. There are different reasons depending on the type of spray and the individual symptoms:

Familiarisation effect with decongestant nasal sprays

You should only use decongestant nasal sprays for a few days. Prolonged use can lead to your nasal mucous membranes becoming accustomed to the spray and no longer decongest properly without it (Nasal spray addiction). This can cause drug-induced rhinitis - the nose remains permanently blocked, even if there is no longer a cold.

Incorrect application

A nasal spray only develops its full effect when used correctly. Mistakes such as inserting the spray head incorrectly, pulling it up too quickly or failing to inhale briefly while spraying can result in the active ingredient not being optimally distributed.

Active ingredient too weak or unsuitable

Not every nasal spray helps with every cause of a blocked nose. For example, a mild seawater spray can moisturise a dry nose, but cannot relieve acute swelling. Conversely, decongestant sprays also do not help against allergic symptoms.

In which diseases is the nose blocked but a nasal spray is not effective or only partially effective?

If your nasal spray does not work for a long time or the symptoms persist, medical advice is required. Especially if accompanying symptoms such as headaches, a feeling of pressure in the face, frequent Nosebleed or olfactory disorders, you should make an appointment at our ENT clinic in Frankfurt for an examination.

Possible causes include

When the nasal spray doesn't work: Diagnostics and treatment at our ENT clinic in Frankfurt

If your nose remains blocked despite using a nasal spray, there may be an underlying cause. At our ENT practice clinic in Frankfurt, we diagnose possible triggers and determine the best treatment for your individual case.

Thanks to our comprehensive equipment, we can carry out both detailed examinations and surgical treatments directly in our practice clinic, so that all steps of the therapy remain in one hand.

Simply contact us to arrange an appointment!

Recurrent sinusitis can have a significant impact on quality of life and is often associated with persistent symptoms such as a feeling of pressure in the centre of the face, headaches and aching. blocked nose associated. Many sufferers wonder why the inflammation keeps flaring up even though it appears to have healed successfully. The causes can be varied - from anatomical features to allergies. In this article, you will find out which factors can be behind recurrent sinusitis and which treatment options can help to achieve long-term improvement.

What is sinusitis?

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the mucous membranes in the paranasal sinuses. The sinuses are air-filled cavities in the skull that are connected to the nasal cavity. Their main function is to humidify, warm and filter the air that is inhaled. When the Mucous membranes When these cavities become swollen or inflamed, sinusitis occurs.

Typical symptoms of the disease are

• Feeling of pressure in the face (especially over the affected sinuses)
• Clogged or Runny nose
• Yellowish-green nasal discharge
• Headaches and facial pain
• Diminished or absent sense of smell
• General feeling of illness

What are the causes of sinusitis?

There are many causes of sinusitis. The most common triggers include

Can recurrent sinusitis be harmful to your health?

Repeated sinusitis can have a negative impact on health in the long term:

Chronic sinusitis

If the inflammation flares up again and again, the mucous membranes can be permanently damaged, resulting in chronic sinusitis can lead to a severe condition. The symptoms persist for months or years. This can significantly impair quality of life.

Spread of the infection

In rare cases, bacteria or viruses from the sinuses can invade neighbouring areas. This can result in serious complications, such as

• Eye inflammation (orbital phlegmon)
  Infections can spread to the eye socket and cause swelling, visual impairment or even permanent damage.
• Meningitis (inflammation of the meninges)
  If the infection spreads to the meninges, this can be life-threatening.
• Abscesses
  Purulent inflammation can occur in bone or soft tissue.

Impairment of the respiratory tract

Repeated inflammation can permanently narrow the airways, making it difficult to breathe through the nose and causing sleep problems and Sleep apnoea can bring with it.

Worsening of other diseases

Recurrent sinusitis can also exacerbate existing conditions such as asthma or chronic bronchitis, as inflammatory processes can be linked.

General stress on the immune system

Frequent inflammation also puts a strain on the immune system and can increase susceptibility to further infections.

Recurrent sinusitis: What to do?

If sinusitis occurs frequently, it is important to identify the underlying causes and treat them in a targeted manner. This is the only way to prevent future episodes.

Recurrent sinusitis: Diagnosis and treatment at the ENT practice clinic Goethe10 in Frankfurt

Recurrent sinusitis is not only annoying, but can also affect your health in the long term. Without the right diagnosis and treatment, the symptoms can become chronic and significantly impair your quality of life.

We at the HNO-Praxisklinik Goethe10 in Frankfurt are your competent partner when it comes to the treatment of sinusitis & Co. With state-of-the-art diagnostic technology and an experienced team, we determine the individual causes of your symptoms.

If anatomical problems such as a crooked nasal septum or nasal polyps are the cause, we offer gentle surgical procedures. We also support you with innovative treatment approaches for chronic or particularly complex cases.

Simply contact us!

You may be familiar with the situation: your nose is constantly running and tissues are in constant use. Even though it's not hay fever season and you don't suffer from any allergies. If secretions keep running out of your nose, this is not only unpleasant, but also annoying. In this article, we explain the possible causes of a runny nose.

Constant runny nose: These are possible triggers

Everyone knows that a cold makes your nose run. However, some patients also complain of a constantly runny nose. We explain which clinical pictures may be behind this:

Allergic rhinitis

The term "allergic rhinitis" is used to summarise various types of allergic rhinitis that are triggered by allergens in the air. The best-known form is hay fever. In this case, sufferers react to plant pollen, tiny pollen particles from trees, cereals, grasses and herbs in the air. However, reactions to house dust mites, animal hair or mould are also possible. Allergic rhinitis is accompanied by sneezing attacks, runny nose and a runny nose. blocked noseThe first step in therapy is to determine which allergens you are reacting to. The first step in therapy is to determine the allergens to which you are reacting. In our practice we carry out the Allergy diagnostics through.

Vasomotor rhinitis (hyperreflective rhinopathy)

This is a special form of rhinitis that can be accompanied by a constant runny nose. In vasomotor rhinitis, the nasal mucosa reacts hypersensitively to strong odours, hot drinks or strongly spiced food. Severe reactions to a change in temperature or physical exertion in cold air are also possible. Hyperreflective rhinopathy can also occur as a result of physical or emotional stress.

Non-allergic eosinophilic rhinitis (NARE syndrome)

If we cannot diagnose any allergic or infectious triggers for your runny nose, the so-called NARE syndrome may be responsible for your symptoms. Those affected suffer from symptoms such as nasal discharge, sneezing attacks, blocked nose and itching in the nose and throat all year round. This clinical picture is often accompanied by Nasal polyps associated. Non-allergic eosinophilic rhinitis can be treated with cortisone and/or surgical removal of the polyps.

Idiopathic rhinitis

Idiopathic rhinitis is often present if you have repeatedly suffered from rhinitis caused by viruses prior to the symptoms. Your mucous membrane may have become hypersensitive due to the viral infections.

Hormonal rhinitis

If your nose is constantly running, this can also be related to an overactive thyroid gland (known as hyperthyroidism). The thyroid gland produces too many hormones, which can lead to a generally increased sensitivity to temperatures, among other things. The body reacts with a swelling of the nasal mucosa.

The thyroid gland is not the only possible trigger. Swelling of the nasal mucosa can also be caused by a general change in hormone levels, e.g. in pregnant women. Many women who are expecting a baby suffer from a blocked or runny nose due to the altered hormone levels. After the birth, the "pregnancy cold" usually disappears again.

Senile rhinorrhoea (senile drip nose)

The natural ageing process also affects the connective tissue of the nose and the cartilage structures. In many older patients, the nose becomes larger, its tip lowers and the nostrils collapse. Breathing becomes more difficult due to the resulting bottlenecks. In addition, there is an age-related reduction in the number of cells in the nose. This causes the mucous membranes to dry out more. Unpleasant crusts can develop. In senile rhinorrhoea, the body also reacts with excessive secretion production. The nasal mucosa produces too much secretion. In addition, the secretion transport often no longer functions as it used to.

The result: senile rhinorrhoea or senile drip nose. It manifests itself as persistent chronic watery rhinitis. Secretions drip more or less uncontrollably from the nose. External influences such as a change in temperature or spicy food can exacerbate the condition.

Crack in the sieve plate

If your nose is constantly running, there may also be a leak in the sieve plate. This is a wafer-thin bone that separates the paranasal sinus from the organs in the head. Further examinations should be carried out, especially if there is heavy nasal discharge following a head injury, an accident or after an operation. A tear in the sieve plate can lead to cerebrospinal fluid escaping from the skull. This cerebrospinal fluid then flows out via the nose.

Constant runny nose: Clarification by your ENT specialist in Frankfurt

Before we can initiate treatment for your nasal complaints, we need to investigate the cause. In our ENT practice in Frankfurt we first check whether an allergic or infectious cause is the cause of your nasal discharge. There are various diagnostic methods for this, such as Endoscopy of the noseallergy tests, blood analyses or laboratory tests of the Nasal secretions.

The treatment of your runny nose depends on the underlying cause of your symptoms. Possible treatments include medication, household remedies such as nasal rinsing or Surgical measures.