Dr. Brian Lee | Scottsdale Sinus and Allergy Center
Dr. Brian Lee | Scottsdale Sinus and Allergy Center
- Statistics show that approximately 50 million Americans grapple with allergies every year.
- Sinusitis occurs as a result of inflammation in the sinuses, while asthma involves inflammation in the airways.
- Many people who have asthma also have chronic problems with the nose and sinuses.
“I would say that the vast majority of patients have some component of allergies contributing to their sinonasal issues,” Dr. Lee told the Grand Canyon Times. “A lot of the time it's inflammation of the nose, and that inflammation could come from allergies, or it could come from chronic or recurrent infections. It's always part of our philosophy to make sure that we test our patients for allergies to make sure that we're not overlooking a contributing factor to make sure not only do we get them better, but we keep them feeling better.”
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), approximately 50% of people who have moderate to severe asthma also suffer from chronic sinusitis. Asthma and allergies can both cause sinusitis.
Many people with asthma also struggle with allergies, and allergy triggers can potentially set off asthma symptoms, according to the Mayo Clinic. When the immune system confronts allergens, it releases chemicals that can cause symptoms like a runny nose, congestion, or skin reactions. These reactions can impact the airways, consequently triggering asthma symptoms. Allergy treatments such as immunotherapy gradually diminish the body's response to allergens, leading to a reduction in asthma symptoms over time.
People who suffer from allergies or chronic sinus problems are more likely to breathe through their mouths, according to McCarl Dental Group. Mouth breathing can result in decreased saliva production, which then allows bacteria and plaque to build up on the teeth. This buildup can lead to cavities, gum disease, and chronic bad breath. Furthermore, habitual mouth breathing may contribute to long-term complications such as strained jaw joints, snoring, sleep apnea, enlarged tonsils, and an elevated susceptibility to airway disorders like asthma.
In 1984, the AAFA proclaimed May as National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, recognizing it as a peak month for individuals affected by asthma or allergies. According to the AAFA, more than 27 million people in the U.S. struggle with asthma, 20 million people suffer from food allergies, and 81 million people have hay fever. The theme of this year's Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month is “empowering individuals, families, and the community to save and improve lives for people with asthma and allergies.”
According to Scottsdale Sinus and Allergy's website, Dr. Brian Lee graduated from Loma Linda University School of Medicine as a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society. He subsequently completed his internship and residency in otolaryngology (head and neck surgery) at the University of Southern California. Dr. Lee was recognized as one of the Valley's "Top Doctors" by Phoenix Magazine in both 2015 and 2016.
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