Is it Seasonal Allergies?

[Daggeris]

Hi. I've never suffered from allergies before and I'm 19. From late November onward I started suffering from severly itchy eyes which turn red. Then over the course of the next weeks it would be accompanied with sneezing, itchy throat and runny nose. I know it can't be a cold because it comes and goes during the day and I've had it for almost 2 to 3 months now. Could I be suffering from seasonal allergies? I'm asking this because from what I've read in websites, it only happens during spring, summer and maybe fall, and it's winter.

I do think it's imporant to note where I live. I live in Puerto Rico which is a tropical island in the Caribbean so it's never officially winter. The grass is always green and trees leaves rarely fall so I guess what would be winter in the U.S. is Autumn for us? Thanks for whatever information you can provide me.

[Dr. Kokil Mathur]

Hi
Thanks for writing to the forum!
What is important is you must find out what is causing this allergy. Common allergens are pollen, mold, dust, pet dander, cosmetics or drugs. You must get an allergy test done, either a skin ***** or RAST, to know what you are allergic to. Seasonal allergies are generally due to pollen or dust. Any cosmetic you apply on face or eye or even for your hair like shampoos or dyes too can cause allergies.

Over the counter antihistamines, decongestants, non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs all help. However you must consult an eye specialist or your family physician first.
Hope this helps. Please let me know if there is any thing else and do keep me posted. Take care!

[Daggeris]

I have not been allergy tested nor will my put me through it 'cause they think you can solve everything taking an Advil. My mom started suffering from allergies from a couple of years ago but she won't go to the doctor about, she just self medicates herself with Benadryl and that's it.

Right now I caught a cold.

[AJWS6]

People can suffer allergies all year around, I have allergies all year around, just some months it's worse then others.  

Have you been allergy tested ??  

My family is from the Carribean Islands, I live in the US.  Everyone in my family living in St. Thomas has allergies.  

If you haven't been allergy tested, then I recommend doing so, then follow up with your allergies for proper treatment.