Are your allergies so bad that they keep you from getting a good night's sleep? Or, maybe allergy season hasn't hit your area yet, but you have a distinct recollection of how you suffered from allergies in the past. Maybe you suspect that your severe allergies are leading to your first asthma attack. Whatever the case, maybe you are looking for ideas that might help you to enjoy things like animals and the great outdoors. The following ideas might help you to enjoy those things without having to rub your red eyes, wipe your runny nose constantly, and go through boxes upon boxes of tissues. 

Obviously you have tried all of the over-the-counter allergy medicines. They might have helped a little bit, but not enough to make a real difference in your allergy-challenged life. Think of going to a board-certified allergist. He or she will have earned a medical degree and will have completed an extensive residency program. Those long years will have been followed by years of study in the areas of allergy and immunology. 

In other words, a board-certified allergist will be very qualified to identify your allergy triggers and to help you manage your immune system disorder.

At your first visit with the allergist, expect to fill out numerous forms that cover your medical history and even your family's medical history. You'll probably fill out a long checklist of items that might be the cause of your severe allergies. Here are some of the things your allergy doctor might recommend:

• Prescription-strength allergy medicine, including nasal sprays
• Injections that will be given on a consistent basis
• Avoidance of things that trigger your allergies

Obviously you can't stop weeds from growing and you can't stop the wind from blowing, but there are other things you can do to change the environment that is causing your allergy problems. For instance, house dust mites and indoor mold can be managed by frequently changing the filters in your HVAC system and by having your home's air ducts cleaned professionally. 

Even if you thoroughly vacuum your carpets, that might not be enough to eliminate hidden causes of your allergies. Think of having your carpets deep cleaned by professionals. Even though it might seem trivial, ask people to leave their shoes by the door when they enter your house. That will mean that they're not tracking things that are causing your allergies into your home.