How to know if your symptoms are bad enough to meet an allergist

So you are sneezing and rubbing your eyes during this allergic season. Who are you?Allergies are common enough that many of us can manage our symptoms Use over-the-counter medications and avoidance strategies such as spending less time outdoors on pollen-rich days. But when are allergies so severe that you should visit a specialist?

First of all, if you’re seeing your doctor for a regular checkup, you can always ask about allergies...Let them know how bad your symptoms are It helps to understand how they affect your life and whether referrals to an allergist make sense. (They may also encourage certain people to see it.)

But if you’re trying to decide for yourself, here are some signs that you can benefit from meeting an expert.

I don’t know what I’m allergic to

One of the biggest things allergists can’t do on their own is to simultaneously test their response to dozens of common allergens.this is no Same as one of those mail order blood tests Almost useless.. Instead, allergy tests are usually done with a skin prick test. The provider draws a small grid on your arm or back and applies a small amount of substance to each spot to pierce the skin.There is a set of pollen and pet dander tests, And other common allergens. If you are allergic to one of the test items, you have a skin reaction.

Other types of legal allergy tests, According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (AAAAI), Includes a challenge test to consume small amounts of suspicious food under supervision, and an IgE blood test (not related to mail-order IgG tests)).

For skin tests, the results are immediate (the test takes about 20 minutes). The allergist can then advise you on what to do with your allergies. If identified- For example, you need to carry an EpiPen. Or, if you need to use certain prescription or over-the-counter medications, they will discuss this.

They can also offer Other strategies to help you avoid Deal with With allergens in your life. For example, my allergist recommended pillows and mattress covers as part of my strategy for managing dustmite allergies. I didn’t think those covers were likely to be so useful, but I finally fired for them based on her recommendations, And my symptom is many Better..

You also have asthma and are getting worse

Allergists also specialize in asthma.Both conditions are related to the immune system, and people with asthma are often prone to allergies... Consider seeing a specialist if you have any signs of severe asthma, whether or not it occurs with allergies. American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (ACAAI) Identify these as follows::

• Wheezing or coughing, especially at night or after exercise
• I’m having a hard time breathing
• I feel chest tightness and shortness of breath

Whatever the cause, dyspnea is bad for you and the symptoms of asthma can overlap with those of other heart and lung conditions. If you cannot see an allergist right away, raise these concerns with a doctor who can see you.

Your allergies and asthma have a serious impact on your daily life

If you occasionally sniff during the pollen season, you probably don’t need professional help. However, ACAAI recommends meeting someone about allergies if:

• Your seasonal allergies last for months of the year
• Over-the-counter medications are not enough to control your allergies
• Over-the-counter medications reduce allergies, but only if you are constantly feeling drowsy or taking enough to have unacceptable side effects.
• Your allergies are causing chronic sinus infections, congestion, or dyspnea
• Your asthma and allergies have a serious impact on your daily life.

I’ve seen an allergist before, but if my symptoms have worsened since then, it’s worth returning. For example, if you are already taking asthma medication but have frequent asthma attacks, it is a sign that you need to meet someone.