Signs You May Need an Allergist

Allergies can manifest in many ways, sometimes significantly impacting your quality of life. Michelle Mozatto, PA-C, an allergy specialist at Schweiger Dermatology & Allergy, highlights key symptoms that could indicate you’re dealing with allergy-related issues.

1. Frequent Sneezing, Coughing, Nasal Congestion, Eye Irritation or Runny Nose

Persistent respiratory symptoms, particularly if they worsen during certain seasons or in specific environments, could suggest allergies to pollen, molds, animals or other environmental factors. These symptoms may seem like a common cold but when they persist for weeks or months it signals to you that a more chronic issue is occurring.

2. Unexplained Skin Reactions

If you experience rashes, hives, itching or eczema flare-ups without a clear cause, allergens might be the culprit. These can be present in your environment, food or even products exposed to the skin. Identifying and avoiding these triggers is crucial in managing skin-related allergy symptoms. Many patients are unaware that if they find the specific triggers that they can halt and reverse progression and chronicity of these symptoms by avoidance and/or considering immunotherapy for environmental allergens. These options prevent patients from needing to depend on long-term medication management.

3. Chronic Sinus Infections or Headaches

Recurring sinus infections or frequent headaches with sinus pressure could indicate an underlying allergy. If you find yourself battling headaches and/or sinus issues multiple times a year, an allergist can help determine if allergens or other aspects of your immune system are contributing to these chronic problems.

4. Difficulty Breathing

Shortness of breath, wheezing, dry cough or chest tightness, especially during physical activity, worse at night or when exposed to allergens like dust mites or pet dander, might signal allergic asthma. Proper diagnosis and management are essential to prevent more severe respiratory complications. Patients should consider pulmonary function testing to rule out asthma. It is always best to rule out concerning symptoms before irreversible damage occurs to the lungs. Listening to your body is the most important first step. If you have symptoms, seek care.

5. Persistent Fatigue or Brain Fog

Unexplained tiredness or cognitive difficulties can also be linked to allergies. When your body is constantly fighting off allergens, it can lead to a state of chronic fatigue or mental cloudiness. Addressing the root cause can significantly improve your energy levels and mental clarity. In addition, chronic usage of antihistamines can also cause fatigue. As such immunotherapy, a more natural approach to allergy treatment should be considered to make your immune system build a tolerance and avoid staying on medication management.

When to Seek Help

If any of these resonate with you, it might be time to check in with an allergy specialist. At Schweiger Dermatology & Allergy, our allergy specialists perform precise testing and create personalized treatment plans to help patients find lasting relief.

To schedule an appointment with one of our allergy specialists, book online or call (844) 760-3380.

Michelle Mozatto, PA-C, is a certified physician assistant at Schweiger Dermatology & Allergy. She is an allergy, asthma and immunology specialist. For the last six years, Michelle has evaluated and treated pediatric and adult patients with asthma, immunodeficiencies, allergic rhinitis, nasal polyps and dermatological conditions such as hives, angioedema and dermatitis. She is experienced in testing allergies pertaining to the environment, substances, food, antibiotics, venom, local anesthesia and contrast.