What are some of the less common symptoms that could tell me I have an allergy?

Black circles under your eyes, long, silky eyelashes, frequent sties or cysts along the lower edge of the upper eyelids, a horizontal nose crease along the lower third of the nose and gelatin-like discharge from the corner of the eye.

Is there any way I can lessen asthma symptoms, like difficulty breathing, without resorting to another medication?

Sure. It's a remedy your grandmother (and great grandmother) probably used.a bowl of hot chicken soup. Actually any warm liquids will help because they are soothing to the bronchial tubes. Cold liquids irritate them.

I have a 10 year old who wants to go to summer camp, but I'm concerned about his asthma flaring up. Any suggestions?

Children with controlled asthma may attend any camp with proper preparation and instruction on identifying problem areas. For children requiring additional care and attention, check into the special camps just for kids with asthma. In addition to regular camp activities, the children usually learn about managing their symptoms and are guided by doctors, nurses and therapists. And since all the campers have asthma, nobody feels like the odd one.
There are more than 100 asthma summer camps in the U.S. Call
1-800-LUNG-USA for information about a camp near you.

My children really want a dog and I've been thinking about a Chihuahua because it's practically hairless. Would that be a good choice to have around allergic kids?

It's not the hair, it's the protein found in the pet's saliva, dander and urine that cause the problems. Unfortunately there is no breed that is universally better for people with asthma and allergies.

I do a lot of driving in my job. Is it safe to take an antihistamine in the morning before I go to work?

Drowsiness is the most common side effect of over-the-counter antihistamines. And driving may be impaired with these drugs without even feeling tired! If this is really giving you a problem ask your allergist for a prescription for one of the newer prescription antihistamines that do not cause drowsiness.

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