Sneezing Season? When to See an Allergist

​If you're sniffling all day or constantly reaching for tissues, you're not alone. According to the CDC, it is estimated that 50 million people in the US have allergies. Having allergies can mean putting up with symptoms like itchy eyes, sneezing, runny nose and congestion. But what if it's more than a minor annoyance?

Persistent allergy symptoms can affect your mood, quality of sleep and ability to concentrate at school or work. Chronic symptoms come with risks like asthma, ear infections, sinusitis and sleep apnea.

The good news for allergy sufferers is relief is possible. Learn how a board-certified allergy specialist can help and when to seek their care.

What an Allergist Can Do for You

Board-certified allergists diagnose and treat allergies, asthma and immune-related conditions — including food allergies. If you or your child has ongoing symptoms, an allergist can:

• Perform allergy testing to identify your specific triggers
• Develop a treatment plan that's personalized to you
• Prescribe advanced therapies like allergy shots (immunotherapy) or biologics (targeted therapy)
• Diagnose and manage other allergy symptoms (hives, swelling, throat tightness, anaphylaxis)

Key takeaway: With the care of an allergist, you can breathe easier, sleep better, enjoy improved focus and avoid long-term uncontrolled symptoms.

When to See an Allergist

While allergies often begin in childhood, adults may also develop them later in life or notice symptoms worsening over time. Consider seeing an allergist if you or your child:

• Has persistent nasal congestion, postnasal drip, cough or sinus/head congestion — or feel like you're always getting sick
• Experiences asthma symptoms (wheezing, shortness of breath, nighttime coughing)
• Suffers from frequent sinus infections, headaches or hay fever symptoms
• Uses antihistamines or over-the-counter medications regularly without relief or with bothersome side effects
• Finds allergies or asthma disrupt your daily life or reduce quality of life
• Experiences food, medication or other allergy symptoms like hives, swelling, stomach upset or severe allergic reaction

Key takeaway: If over-the-counter medications don't ease symptoms or you have other concerns, it's time to see an allergist.

Why People Delay Allergy Care—and Why You Shouldn't

People often put off seeing an allergist. Reasons include:

• Believing symptoms are just seasonal or are not serious enough
• Underestimating how much allergies affect health and daily life
• Mistaking allergies for colds or other conditions
• Assuming nothing more can be done

Key takeaway: Allergies are treatable—and the right care can significantly improve your well-being.

Get Expert Allergy Care at Boys Town

Boys Town National Research Hospital offers comprehensive allergy, asthma and immunology care for children and adults. Our board-certified allergists provide expert diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic allergy symptoms and conditions.

Find a Boys Town allergist at a clinic near you, or call us at (531) 355-1234 to schedule an appointment.​