Exposing to myself to my allergens daily....
I have allergies and asthma, I teach horseback riding. I am outside mostly all day 
due to my job. I also mow a lot. We live on 40 acers in North Texas. I wear a quality mask when I mow. What happens if I keep exposing myself as I do? I am not an indoor sort and would be lost with out my horses, cats, dogs, ducks, chickens and my little goat. I avoid telling my allergiest about how much time I spend in the barn.
PS When I go to visit my Mom in CA she lives in a super clean house no pets and I still have allergies!
Nancy
Hi Princeaboo,
You appear to have a high number of allergic sensitivities. My approach to highly allergic patients is to first identify their specific trigger factors by doing skin testing. Assuming this has been done in your case, the next step is to reduce exposure to indoor environmental triggers. These topics are reviewed extensively on this site. I know you spend most of your time outdoors but indoor triggers are still very important to address.
I offer allergy shots to people who are allergic to trigger factors that are unavoidable and troublesome despite medications. Horse shots may not be available but often are not necessary unless you are highly allergic to horse dander. Often the mold spores associated with hay in the stable or barn are the major problem.
I recommend discussing your allergy problems with your allergist. He/she may choose to adjust your medications or advise when and how much medication to take based on your detailed account. Allergy shots may be offered. You can learn more about allergy shots on this site.
Good Luck!
J. Thompson, MD
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