Cathy O; Ottawa, Canada asks: I have runny nose and sneeze when I am in my bedroom. I thought it was dust mites, but I have the same allergy problem when I go into rooms without carpets. I washed my pillow case, but no change. What can I do?
I had someone write to me complaining of a runny nose and sneezing when they entered their bedroom. They thought they had dust mites in the bedroom carpet, but the problem continued when they went into rooms without carpets. I had to check the title of my web site to make sure it had not accidentally been changed to “Ask The Doctor” because the questions being asked really seemed more related to medial issues than pest control issues.
Keep in mind that late summer is the height of allergy season. Children with allergies often “grow” out of their allergy problems. But, did you know that adults sometimes develop allergic reactions to dust, trees, grass, pet hair and many other things that never before bothered them?
I would suggest a visit to an allergist to have some standard tests done. One of the most common methods to test for allergies is the scratch test. It involves placing a small amount of suspected allergy-causing substances on the skin, usually the forearm, upper arm, or the back. Then, the skin is scratched or pricked so the allergen goes under the skin’s surface. The health care provider closely watches the skin for signs of a reaction, usually swelling and redness of the site. Results are usually obtained within about 20 minutes and a number of allergens can be tested at the same time.
If you are found to have allergies and you receive proper medication, it might make your life a lot more bearable.
Posts
