So you think you have an allergy. But can you be sure? Although an estimated 9.6 million people in Australia and New Zealand suffer from allergies, other conditions – such as colds – are very good at mimicking them. Before you make an appointment with your doctor, take a few minutes to answer the following questions 1 Do your symptoms, including sneezing, congestion, runny nose, watery eyes, fatigue and headaches, occur simultaneously? 2 Is the duration of your symptoms variable – for instance, sometimes a month or more and sometimes just a couple of days or even hours? 3 Is the mucus discharge from your nose clear? 4 Do you sneeze frequently, particularly two or three times in a row? 5 Do your symptoms occur more often between spring and autumn? 6 Are your nasal symptoms unaccompanied by aches and chills? Scoring
3 to 5 yes answers: It’s quite likely that your symptoms are related to allergies. See your health care provider for further testing. 3 to 5 no answers: You probably have a cold or other respiratory ailment. Wait a few days, and if it doesn’t clear up on its own, see your health care provider. | 
