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Step 1
Learn the signs used to diagnose pollen allergies. They include itching, sneezing, a runny nose, dark circles under the eyes (called shiners), chronic coughing, fatigue and interrupted sleep.
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Step 2
Keep a journal to track your symptoms over 3 to 4 weeks, taking note of when and where they occur. If you're sneezing primarily when you mow the lawn or go to the park, you may be allergic to something growing nearby.
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Step 3
Determine when your symptoms are most noticeable. If your sneezing and itching happens all year, something besides pollen may be contributing to the problem.
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Step 4
Make an appointment with your primary-care physician. Go over your journal of symptoms and any additional history of upper-respiratory symptoms or persistent infections. While your doctor may refer you to an allergy specialist, he also may recommend an initial treatment plan.
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Step 5
Make an appointment with an allergy specialist or otolaryngologist (ear, nose and throat doctor) who will most likely draw blood or conduct skin testing to diagnose existing allergies. If she determines that you do not have allergies, she may recommend further testing to diagnose sinus problems or ongoing infections.













