Otolaryngic Allergy is the largest subspecialty field within otolaryngology, head and neck surgery in the United States and has been practiced for decades by otolaryngologists who complete the educational requirements of the American Academy of Otolaryngic Allergy. If you suffer from allergies, you are not alone. Approximately 15 to 20 percent of people suffer from allergies, making it one of the more common chronic illnesses. Billions of health care dollars are spent each year diagnosing and treating allergies. Allergy is a condition, oftentimes inherited, which causes a person's immune system to overreact to an otherwise harmless substance in the environment. Common allergy triggers include: Animal dander (especially cat dander), Dust mites, Tree pollen, Grass pollen, Weeds, Molds, and Foods.