How To Tell If You Suffer From Allergies

By Srinagesh Paluvoi, MD

Allergy & Asthma Affiliates, Inc

More Allergy, Asthma & Infectious Disease Articles

How To Tell If You Suffer From Allergies

Q. What is Allergic Rhinitis?

A. Allergic rhinitis is a medical term for an inflammation of the nasal airways that occurs when you breathe in or are exposed to something to which you are allergic.

Q. How to differentiate common colds versus allergies?

A. Common colds are caused by viruses. The symptoms are stuffy and runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, muscle aches, low grade or no fever. Duration is usually seven to 10 days, and it may get worse before it gets better. Nasal allergies are caused by exposure to allergens. Symptoms are nasal congestion, sneezing, and runny, itchy nose.

Q. What am I allergic to?

A. There are basically two types of allergic rhinitis seasonal and perennial (year-round). Seasonal allergic rhinitis refers to allergies caused by pollen from trees, grasses, and/or weeds.

Perennial allergic rhinitis is usually caused by dust, molds, and animal dander (or scales that flake from the skin, hair, or feathers of animals or birds).

Your allergist or health care provider can perform several tests to determine exactly which substances your body considers to be allergens.

Q. How did I get it?

A. When you have an allergy, it means your immune system is fighting something that would be considered harmless by the immune system of a non-allergic person.

Q. But what if I don't have any pets (or live near trees, or use feather pillows)?

A. Allergens (except for those that come in certain drugs or food) get into the body through the nose or mouth. Microscopic in size, most allergens are carried by air and are easily breathed in.

Q. What can I do to prevent allergies?

A. For sufferers of seasonal allergic rhinitis, if you can keep pollen out of your home, you can usually reduce the severity of your symptoms. For example, on dry, windy days, keep your home and car windows closed and use an air conditioner. If you suffer from perennial allergic rhinitis usually strict control in your home environment will help relieve symptoms.

Q. What can be done to treat my allergies?

First and foremost is avoidance of allergens. Medications such as antihistamines, nasal steroids, nasal antihistamines and occasionally oral decongestants are helpful.

Allergy shots or immunotherapy is helpful for some patients who cannot tolerate medications due to side effects or medications alone or not helpful.

Q. Where can I find additional information?

A. For additional information about allergies, talk to an allergy specialist. You can also visit the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology web site.