The first step in controlling allergies is figuring out what it is that triggers the allergic response. Sometimes it is like a ton of bricks falling on you, you know as soon as you come in contact with the allergen. You have boiled shrimp at lunch and your throat swells up, you pet your neighbors cat and start sneezing and your eyes get all red where you rubbed them or your find when you go to bed and an hour or so later you can't breath. Dust mites are one of the most common allergens and easiest to control. By putting mattress covers on the bed and most people see a difference the next day..

Other times it's not so apparent. You go outside and start sneezing only during certain times of the year or when the wind blows just right. I get all stuffed up when the wind blows from the West. Our house is close to the Everglades and the Melaleuca trees give me fits. It may be a combination of things that all happen at the same time like holiday time at the mall where you get hit will all those wonderful and not so wonderful fragrances. Overload of the senses and in some cases your immune system.

Often your regular doctor will try a few things like suggesting you take an antihistamine like Claritin and tell you to come back if don't get better or your symptoms get worse. If that is the case most will recommend you go to a specialist like an Allergist, ENT or Immunologist.

If this happens you need to be prepared to give the doctor the most accurate accounting of your allergy attacks. You want to be able to tell them when they happen, where you were, what you were around and how long they lasted. They will also want to know about your family members and who had allergies or asthma. Make a list of any medications you are taking in case they want to prescribe medication. The more information they have the quicker they can find out what is causing the allergy attacks. It also may reduce the number of test you will have to endure. Good Thing...

Once they get a better idea of what may be causing you allergy attacks they will decide what tests to run to confirm their diagnosis. Once they know what it is that causes you all the grief it gets a lot easier to control and get on with your life. After all, it is too short to go around feeling bad all the time.