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Getting the Answer to "Do I have Allergies?"

You can't seem to stop sneezing. Your nose is runny. Your eyes are watering. You may be thinking, "Do I have allergies?"

With those symptoms, it can be difficult to know if you are dealing with allergies, sinus issues, or a cold. Fortunately, there are some differences that can help you figure out what condition you are really dealing with. Answer these questions to determine if you have an allergy or not:

Do You Have a Fever?
Allergies generally do not cause a fever. When the body is fighting off an infection caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites, a fever is a common symptom. The common cold and influenza are often accompanied by a fever.

Do You Have a Headache?
Headaches are not a normal symptom of allergies. A headache can be a symptom of stress, sinus infections, the common cold, or a viral infection. It can start as a pain behind the eyes or in the neck.

Have Your Symptoms Been Around for Awhile?
Colds and sinus infections tend to come and go within a couple of weeks. If your sneezing and runny nose has been around for more than two weeks, you can answer "yes" to the "do I have allergies?" question.

Do You Experience the Symptoms the Same Time Each Year?
When the trees blossom in early spring, the tree pollen will be strong. Grass pollen will be seen as the kids get out of school and the early summer months. Weed pollens will be strongest later in the summer.

Do You Experience Symptoms Year Round?
Some people never seem to get rid of their allergy symptoms. If you have allergy symptoms all year round, you likely have allergies triggered by indoor particulates.

Pet dander and hair can trigger symptoms as can dust mites and mold spores.

When Should I See An Allergist?

Don't let allergy symptoms keep making you feel miserable. If you think you have allergies, you may need the help of a medical professional to get rid of the symptoms. The professionals at Dakota Allergy and Asthma can diagnose and treat your allergy symptoms.

Topics: Allergies

Mark Bubak, M.D.

About the Author: Mark Bubak, M.D.

Dr. Bubak is certified by the American Board of Allergy and Immunology to care for adults and children with asthma and allergies. He has been active in allergy research and education with special emphasis on new allergy testing and treatment methods. A South Dakota native, his medical degree is from the University of South Dakota School of Medicine, with Allergy and Internal Medicine fellowships at the Mayo Clinic.

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    Not in the Sioux Falls area?

    But still need an Allergist?

    If you need an Asthma specialist or Allergist and you are not in the Sioux Falls South Dakota area, please use one of the links below to find one closer to you:

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