Hay fever
Questions to ask your doctor
Many people with hay fever don't bother going to see their doctor. But it might be worth talking with your doctor about your hay fever and what treatment is right for you, especially if treatments you've tried yourself haven't worked.
Here are some questions that you might want to ask.
- How do you know I have hay fever?
- Could it be another type of
allergy
If you have an allergy to something, your body overreacts when you're around it. The thing you are allergic to is called an allergen. Most allergens are harmless to most people. But if you're allergic to something, your body's system for fighting infection (your immune system) is too sensitive to that allergen. It triggers changes that we call allergic reactions. For example, pollen is an allergen for many people. If you're allergic to pollen, you'll sneeze and have runny eyes when pollen is in the air.allergy or a cold? - Can we find out what's triggering my hay fever?
- What treatment do you recommend?
- What symptoms will the treatment help?
- Does the treatment have any side effects?
- Should I start using the treatment before the hay fever season starts?
- Is there anything I can do to avoid the things that trigger my hay fever?
- What can I do when my symptoms are really bad?
- Should I stop taking my medication for hay fever if I start taking other medications?
- Will I always have hay fever?
- Will it get better or worse over time?
This information was last updated on May 01, 2009
This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment.
© BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2009. All rights reserved.
© BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2009. All rights reserved.
The information on ConsumerReportsHealth.org should not be viewed as a substitute for a consultation with a medical or health professional.
The information is meant to enhance communication with your doctor, not replace it. Consumers Union can not be liable for any loss, injury, or other damages related to your use of this information.
Your use of this information is subject to our User Agreement available at www.ConsumerReportsHealth.org.
Your use of this information is subject to our User Agreement available at www.ConsumerReportsHealth.org.
Source: ConsumerReportsHealth.org Copyright © 2005-2008 Consumers Union of U.S., Inc.
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