Accurate diagnosis of allergies is essential for effective management. To diagnose allergies, your doctor may:

Take a detailed medical history and conduct a physical examination
Recommend allergy tests, such as skin prick tests or blood tests, to identify specific allergens
Conduct elimination diets or food challenges for suspected food allergies

Although allergies are usually not life-threatening, they can lead to complications, such as:

Asthma attacks: Allergies can trigger or worsen asthma symptoms, leading to difficulty breathing and wheezing.
Sinusitis and ear infections: Chronic nasal congestion due to allergies can increase the risk of sinusitis and ear infections.
Anaphylaxis: In severe cases, an allergic reaction can cause a life-threatening condition known as anaphylaxis, which requires immediate medical attention.

There are several misconceptions surrounding allergies. It's important to dispel these myths to ensure accurate understanding and proper management. Some common misconceptions include:

Allergies are only seasonal: Allergies can occur year-round and be triggered by various allergens, not just seasonal factors.
Allergies are not serious: While mild allergies may be manageable, severe allergies can significantly impact quality of life and require medical intervention.
Allergies can be outgrown: While some allergies may lessen or disappear over time, others may persist throughout life.

Several conditions may have symptoms similar to allergies. It's essential to consider other possible diagnoses, including:

Cold or flu
Sinus infections
Non-allergic rhinitis
Asthma
Eczema or other skin conditions