Search for the Best Local Hay Fever Doctor

Hay fever is an annoying condition that nearly 30% of Americans suffer from. It's not serious but its symptoms can cause plenty of discomfort and inconvenience. It's also not something you should treat on your own, especially if you're basing your self-diagnosis on perceived symptoms alone. You'll need a good hay fever doctor to help you manage and treat this condition. Here are ways on how to find one:

Look for a specialist
Hay fever is actually a type of rhinitis that results from an allergic reaction to pollens. It's seasonal, which means you will suffer from it only on certain times of the year and usually during the same season. The allergic reaction comes as a result of inhaling airborne pollens. It then causes symptoms such as wheezing, coughing and runny nose.

If you have been referring your medical problems to a general practitioner, then you might want to find a doctor who specializes in allergies. These doctors are referred to as allergists and they are better trained than a general practitioner in diagnosing and treating your hay fever. Do this if your symptoms are especially bad.

A GP will probably be able to help you with your condition but it will still be a good idea to talk to an allergist. Allergists are specialists who have trained for at least two years in the understanding and treatment of allergies. They are more likely to have a better grip on what your problem is and can guide you on what to do.

Ask for a referral from your GP
Your family doctor can help you locate a good allergist. Allergies are quite common and your GP probably has a list of fellow doctors who specialize in their diagnosis and treatment.

Ask friends and family for referrals
If you have any relatives or friends who also have problems with hay fever, ask who their doctor is. It's likely you'll find someone who can help you with your condition if he or she is a doctor trusted by a close family member or friend.

Look for hay fever doctors in your area
Not every allergist will advertise on the Yellow Pages but it won't hurt if you checked the listings. You could also find hay fever doctors in trade journals or through local medical clubs or associations.

If you want to check your hay fever doctor's credentials, you might also try www.aaaai.org, the website of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. This site has a listing of practicing allergists whom you could get in touch with in your area.