How to Diagnose Pollen Allergies

The symptoms are familiar--itchy, watery eyes, uncontrollable sneezing, and a persistent runny nose or cough. The problem is allergic rhinitis. Forty million Americans suffer from reactions to airborne allergens, and studies show that pollens are among the most common allergens. You can learn some ways to determine whether plants and weeds may be causing your misery.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear a respirator mask when mowing the lawn or doing yard work, especially if you notice an increase in symptoms when you are outdoors. A mask can reduce the number of airborne pollens invading your nose.
• If your symptoms are present all year long, determine whether you have pet allergies or a mold problem in your home or office environment.
• Visit AAAAI.org to keep track of pollen counts (see Resources below).
• Don't assume that you need an over-the-counter (OTC) medicine. Persistent use of OTC allergy medications can cause sleepiness and anxiety. They may not be the best option for you.
• Don't take allergy medicines prescribed to family members or friends. It is never a safe choice to self-medicate with prescription drugs without consulting a doctor.

Resources

• Pollen counts at AAAAI.org

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