Caring for your ears, nose & throat
Lakeshore ENT offers personalized and comprehensive care of diseases and disorders of the ear, nose, and throat. Our specialists are unmatched in their commitment to patient-centered care, offering high-quality services in all aspects of ENT care, both medical and surgical.
Areas of specialty
- Chronic ear and mastoid disease
- Hearing loss
- Pediatric ear infections
- Sinusitis of adults and children
- Sinus surgery
- Allergy testing
- Nasal obstruction and allergies
- Snoring and sleep apnea
- Tonsil and throat illness
- Voice and swallowing problems
- Facial plastic surgery and skin cancer problems
- Cosmetic procedures
Providers
Board-certified otolaryngologist Nicholas Groch, DO, earned his bachelor's degree and doctor of osteopathic medicine degree at Michigan State University. His internship and residency in otolaryngology/facial plastic surgery were both completed at Henry Ford Bi-County Hospital in Warren, Michigan.
Board-certified otolaryngologist Melanie Groch, DO, earned her bachelor's degree as well as her doctor of osteopathic medicine degree at Michigan State University. The East Lansing-based college is where she also completed her internship. Dr. Groch fulfilled her residency in otolaryngology and head and neck/facial plastic surgery at Metropolitan Hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Learn How Spring Allergies Can Affect Your Wellbeing | Oswego Health
When combating the seasonal allergies that appear like clockwork each year, many individuals assume they're in the clear once the season is over. While this may be true for some people, other allergy sufferers can feel the effects long after spring ends if the symptoms aren't managed during peak allergy season. Here at Oswego Health, you can learn how spring allergies may lead to other wellness issues and the preventative steps you can take to benefit your wellbeing.
What Are Seasonal Allergies?
Allergies occur when the body's immune system reacts to an environmental trigger. In the spring, one of the leading triggers is airborne pollen. The trees and plants bloom and a rush of pollen particles flow through the air, resulting in inflamed sinuses and airways. Studies show approximately 7.8% of people 18 and over in the U.S. suffer from hay fever (allergic rhinitis) and know those telltale signs well.
Along with putting a damper on the season, untreated allergies can have a ripple effect. If you have asthma or are more prone to sinus and ear infections, you may want to consider how your seasonal allergies make you feel during the rest of the year.
Long-Term Effects of Seasonal Allergies
While some individuals suffer from congestion, sneezing, and itchy eyes in the spring, others may experience an uptick in asthmatic symptoms. This is because allergies and asthma often go hand in hand. Asthma can be triggered by cold air, exercise, and infections, yet allergic asthma is quite common and can increase your need for treatment.
Allergies can also lead to chronic sinus issues and ear infections. If those passages become inflamed and congested when pollen counts are high, it presents an opportunity for infection to occur. Managing your symptoms can help prevent chronic infections like these from affecting your overall health throughout the rest of the year.
Spring into Action During Allergy Season
When it comes to allergies, knowledge is power. Being mindful of your triggers is key to mitigating the effects. Common plant allergens include:
- Birch, cedar, and oak trees
- Ragweed
- Sagebrush
- Pigweed
- Lamb's quarters
- Grass
In addition to keeping an eye on the pollen count and asking someone else to do your yard work, make allergy season easier by incorporating a few simple steps into your daily routine:
- Stay indoors when pollen counts and winds are high
- Use a HEPA filter and close the windows to help keep indoor air clean
- Change your clothes after going outdoors
- Regularly bathe pets that spend a lot of time outside
- Change bedding routinely to ensure a restful sleep
- Dry clothes in the drier instead of on a clothesline
Consult a Healthcare Professional about Your Seasonal Allergies
Some allergy sufferers find relief in antihistamines, nasal corticosteroid sprays, and decongestants found at their local pharmacy. Speak with your doctor to find the most appropriate over-the-counter allergy treatment for you. If you're unsure if your allergy symptoms are merely a cold in disguise, take this quiz to learn the difference.
Have more questions about your allergies and year-round health? Consult an ENT specialist at Oswego Health who can help you learn more about your allergy triggers and how to find ways to treat and manage your symptoms during spring allergy season and beyond. Contact us for more information today.