What are common tiggers?
A trigger can be allergic or non-allergic, and is basically anything that causes you to have allergy-like symptoms. Triggers come from many different sources. Common triggers include pet dander, pollen in the air, mold, pollution, smoke, grass, and trees -- even exercise can be a trigger.
Can I be allergic to more than one thing?
Yes. Most people with allergies are allergic to more than one substance (allergen). Their symptoms might appear only when they are exposed to two or more triggers at once. The effect of exposure to allergens is cumulative. This chart below shows how patients with multiple allergic sensitivities may not have symptoms until their total exposure to allergens pushes them over the symptom threshold. Reducing exposure to one or more allergens may help to reduce a patient's symptoms.
Can I guess my triggers based on my symptoms?
Not necessarily. Symptoms can be caused by many different allergic or non-allergic triggers. Using symptoms like congestion, sneezing, coughing, or wheezing to guess your triggers is not very helpful. There are many possible inhalant allergic triggers (indoor and outdoor, seasonal and perennial), so if you are allergic and you try to guess your allergic triggers, you might guess wrong. You also won't have the whole picture.
What are the benefits of having an allergy blood test?
The test results will help you and your healthcare provider customize a treatment approach that's right for you. Knowing your allergic triggers can help you take control and reduce symptoms. Normal or negative results can help your doctor rule out allergies in order to consider other possible triggers.
Does reducing my exposure to my allergic triggers help?
Yes. Reducing exposure to one or more of your allergic triggers can help reduce your symptoms and your need for medication. However, it is crucial to know exactly what you are allergic to. This can only be accomplished by working with your helathcare provider to learn your unique allergy profile.
Allergies could be making your symptoms worse
To learn more:
Download an allergy symptom questionnaire by clicking here. Once you complete the questionnaire, take it to your healthcare provider and ask about a simple test that lets you know your allergic triggers. Taking this action to learn if you have allergies gives you and your healthcare provider the abililty to better manage your symptoms.