4 Ways To Determine What Type of Allergies You Have

Millions of people worldwide suffer from allergies, which can cause uncomfortable symptoms that affect your daily life. These symptoms may include sneezing, itchy eyes, a runny nose, hives or a skin rash, and difficulty breathing. 

While some allergies are easy to identify, others can be more difficult to pinpoint, leaving you wondering what’s causing your symptoms.

At Allergy & Asthma Clinic of Maryland in Silver Spring, Maryland, we have a skilled team of health care professionals led by Dr. Vasif Kalfa, our experienced, board-certified allergist. We’re committed to helping you find solutions to alleviate your allergy symptoms and enhance your overall health.

Here, we cover four practical ways to determine what type of allergies you have. 

1. Keep a symptom diary

One of the best ways to start understanding your allergies is by keeping a symptom diary. Note when your symptoms occur, how severe they are, and any possible triggers you can identify. 

Include information such as the time of day, weather conditions, and your activities leading up to the onset of symptoms. Over time, you may notice patterns that can help you and Dr. Kalfa pinpoint your specific allergies.

For instance, if your symptoms consistently appear after spending time outdoors or doing yard work, you may have a pollen allergy. 

2. Come in for allergy testing

Allergy testing is a crucial step in determining the cause of your symptoms. We offer various allergy testing options to help identify the specific allergens that trigger your reactions. 

Dr. Kalfa will help you decide which testing method is best based on your symptoms, medical history, and other relevant factors. Allergy testing is essential in providing a clear picture of the allergens responsible for your symptoms, allowing for a more targeted treatment plan.

3. Try a food elimination diet

If you suspect a food allergy, an elimination diet can help you zero in on the culprit. During this process, you'll remove certain foods from your diet for a set period, then reintroduce them one at a time while monitoring for symptoms of a reaction.

Working with Dr. Kalfa during this process is crucial, as he can help you determine which foods to eliminate and ensure you're still getting proper nutrition. Additionally, he can guide you on managing potential nutrient deficiencies during the elimination phase and advise you on safely reintroducing foods into your diet.

4. Employ environmental control measures

In some cases, the best way to determine the type of allergy you have is by controlling your environment and observing changes in your symptoms. 

For instance, if you think you may have a dust mite allergy, try cleaning with a vacuum that contains a HEPA filter, or using dust-mite-proof pillow cases and mattress covers, and see if your symptoms improve. 

Get to the bottom of your allergy symptoms today

Determining the type of allergies you have is crucial for finding relief and improving your quality of life. By using these strategies, you can better understand the root cause of your allergy symptoms. 

At Allergy & Asthma Clinic of Maryland, we'll help you identify your specific allergies, develop a personalized treatment plan, and provide ongoing guidance to manage your symptoms effectively. 

We cater to patients in Silver Spring, Chevy Chase, and Bethesda, Maryland, as well as the greater Washington, D.C. area. With our expert care and your commitment to understanding and managing your allergies, you can enjoy a healthier, more comfortable life. Give us a call at 240-332-8010 today, or book an appointment online any time.