1. I have mild environmental allergies. I prefer not to take medicines - can you recommend things I can do when outside to minimize discomfort?
2. What's the difference between and "allergy" and an "intolerance"?
3. How do you treat allergies?
4. Do allergies ever go away?
5. How can I tell if my allergies are bad enough for me to see a doctor?

I have mild environmental allergies. I prefer not to take medicines - can you recommend things I can do when outside to minimize discomfort?

A visit to the allergist can help identify substances you may be allergic to and techniques to avoid them.


What's the difference between and "allergy" and an "intolerance"?

Although allergies and intolerance may present similarly, allergies are due to substances your immune system recognizes as allergenic and against which an allergic reaction is mounted.


How do you treat allergies?

An allergist evaluates and treats allergies by identifying substances that may be causing allergy symptoms by history, skin testing, and/or blood testing. Methods of treatment may include environmental avoidance, medication, and allergy shots (immunotherapy).


Do allergies ever go away?

Allergies are dynamic and may resolve or appear at different life stages.


How can I tell if my allergies are bad enough for me to see a doctor?

Allergy symptoms may be mild or severe. Seeing an allergist even when symptoms are mild can help you gain knowledge and better control over your condition.