Dr. Wants to do allergy testing but I don't think I HAVE allergies!!

[childrenrtreasures]

I went to the dr with strep throat. I told him that this is the fourth time I've had symptoms like that since last August (although they were not quite as severe as this time so I never went in). I let  him know that my tonsils swell once or twice a month (only since August; although they've been chronically enlarged, cryptic and with tonsilliths since I had Mono almost 15 years ago...my dentist always mentions how big they are). They are red and only slightly painful; they make it difficult to breath when lying down (because they're so huge) and I talk "nasal-y".

He said that it sounds like I have allergies and prescribed me Clarinex. The insert said that it's to treat the symptoms of seasonal allergies: itchy/watery eyes, nasal congestion, runny nose and itchy throat. Apparently it's a decongestant/antihistimine combo. The problem is I don't have any of those symptoms!! Not to mention the swollen tonsils aren't seasonal...they're chronic.

He wants me to get allergy testing done (which we just did with my daughter...it was $300; I'm not interested in paying that again).

I'd appreciate anyone's opinions on my situation.

Thanks!

Kelly

[star queen]

If your tonsils are enlarged, red, and you are getting tonsilliths, you probably do have allergies.  Seasonal allergies have the red eyes, runny nose, etc.  Not all allergies are accompanied with these symptoms. You are just getting symptoms you are "used to" and don't see anything any different.  Allergies can be acquired at any time and any age even after being exposed to the allergen all your life.  Take the allergy test.  There is an allergy test where they take a blood sample and test for a ton of stuff.  See if your allergist does this, or who does it and go there.  I don't know what it costs, but since it is a blood test rather than a skin test, the insurance companies usually cover it.  Good luck.

[canada110]

i would get it done caue you never know it could be so simple and solve all your problems..i myslef am going for testing for a stuffed up nose and no other syptoms (symptoms)..I believe it due to turbinate enlargment but hey i'd rather take a simple test then get surgery i didn't need that's forsure...and tonsil surgery is a ***** i heard hurts like hell especially as you get older