Allergies are one of the most common chronic health conditions Americans face, but some cases are more severe than others. If you are experiencing allergy symptoms that affect your quality of life, you may benefit from seeing an allergist. Here’s how to know when you should schedule an appointment.

How to Recognize That It's Time to See an Allergist

1. Your Cold Symptoms Won’t Go Away

Having a runny, stuffy nose and cough usually suggest you’re sick. Allergies and the common cold often cause similar symptoms, so it’s easy for people to confuse them. However, if your cold-like symptoms persist for more than two weeks, it is more likely due to an allergy. Allergy testing can determine what is triggering your immune system.

2. You Experience Shortness of Breath

Serious symptoms like chest tightness, wheezing, and trouble breathing should not be taken lightly. Set an appointment with an allergist at an asthma clinic right away for such symptoms. These specialists treat both issues because asthma symptoms can sometimes result from the immune system’s overreaction to an allergen.

3. Your Body Reacts After Eating

Many adults believe that food allergies only start during childhood, so they don’t suspect it as the cause when their body reacts. In reality, you can develop an allergy to food at any stage in life. If you experience digestive problems, facial swelling, rashes, or trouble breathing within a few hours of eating, take note of what you ate and bring the information to an allergist.

4. Over-the-Counter Drugs Are Ineffective

You might recognize allergy symptoms and take over-the-counter medication, known as antihistamines, to treat them. For some, this easy remedy will not reduce symptoms. Others may experience side effects that inhibit daily activities, such as nausea, vomiting, blurry vision, drowsiness, and dizziness. Alternative solutions like allergy shots and prescription medication might provide the relief you need.

5. Your Symptoms Are Getting Worse

Sometimes allergies can gradually get worse over time. If you’ve had an allergy for more than a few months, you might observe your symptoms getting more intense or frequent. This can significantly impact your ability to function and carry on with your daily routine. Your symptoms might be getting worse because of increased exposure to an allergen, pollution, stress, or age.

If you’re experiencing persistent or severe allergy symptoms, Allergy & Asthma Clinics of Georgia in Albany provides effective solutions that will help you find relief. Their advanced team of trained allergists offers various diagnostic testing options, including skin, latex, patch, food, venom, and antibiotic tests. After a diagnosis, their cutting-edge treatments and care will help you manage your allergies and reduce symptoms. Visit their website for more information about their services. To schedule a consultation, call (877) 874-6972.