Hi Chris,

The best way to know what you are allergic to is to have allergy testing done by a specialist in allergy treatment. But you say you don't want to go to the doctor, so that may not be an option for you. Another way, but it will take longer and be more subject to error since it's subjective, is to keep an allergy diary.

In the diary, you write down everything you do and everywhere you go in a very detailed fashion, with an also detailed accounting of when you notice symptoms, what makes them worse and what makes them better.

By analyzing your diary entries, over time, you may be able to see patterns. For example, everytime you go outside in the late spring/early summer, you notice you start sneezing and your throat itches. That could indicate an allergy to tree pollen.

Or when you work with your potted plants, your eyes start tearing and your nose runs. That might indicate an allergy to mold spores, which tend to reside in dark, damp environments such as soil.

This is not foolproof, but if you get a suspicion such as above and then take steps to avoid that possible allergen and subsequently notice better control of your symptoms, then it's a good bet that you've identified a trigger. Trigger avoidance will always be the best way to prevent/lessen allergy symptoms, but it's also the most challenging.

Most people who have allergies do need to use some kind of allergy medicine, at least part of the time. Kenalog, last time I checked, was available in Europe, but not in the US. If you live in Europe, then by all means, ask about whether Kenalog might be right for you. In research I did a few weeks ago, I learned that some people have had great results from it that lasted for months, while others complained about side effects. As with any medicine, you'll need to weigh risks against benefits so that you can make the most informed decision.

To your health,

Kathi