|  Testing
for allergies can be done in a variety of ways, beginning with a
doctor's exam. In the course of the examination, you will be asked
a number of questions in order to rule out other medical conditions
that may cause your symptoms. Your physician may ask you questions
such as:
- What type of symptoms do you have?
- How long have you had these symptoms?
- When symptoms occur, how long do they last?
- Are your symptoms seasonal (come and go throughout the year)
or do they last year-round?
- Do your symptoms occur when you are outdoors or indoors, such
as when you clean your house?
- Do your symptoms get worse when you are around pets? Do you
have any pets?
- Do you smoke? Does anyone in your family smoke?
- Are your symptoms interfering with your daily activities or
interrupting your sleep?
- What makes your symptoms better? What types of treatments have
you tried? What allergy medication(s) are you taking now? Do these
medications provide relief? Do they cause unwanted drowsiness?
- What other medications are you taking, including prescription,
over-the-counter, vitamins and herbal supplements?
- What type of heating system do you have? Do you have central
air conditioning?
- Do you have any other health conditions, such as asthma or high
blood pressure?
- Are you having difficulty with your sense of smell or taste?
- What makes your symptoms worse?
- How much can you modify your lifestyle to reduce your exposure
to these allergens?
Based on this preliminary evaluation, the ENT may recommend:
- skin tests
- blood tests
- elimination/removal of suspected allergen
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