Allergy asthma symptoms: What to expect before a diagnosis
If you’re experiencing allergy asthma symptoms and planning to talk to your doctor, here’s what you can expect from that appointment.
First, be prepared with a complete list of your symtpoms–because breathing difficulties can mean many different things (some a lot more serious than allergic asthma), it’s important that you tell your doctor everything so that an accurate diagnosis can be made.
Next, be prepared to insist your doctor take you seriously. Sometimes, our doctors are booked up too much to pay attention to everything we say, so make sure you insist on your doctor’s full attention during this discussion. If at any point you feel like your doctor’s not listening, get his or her attention before continuing. It’s really important that you help your doctor *not* make assumptions by communicating clearly.
Once you’ve talked with your doctor about your symptoms, you’ll likely be given several tests. Your doctor will probably x-ray your lungs, give you a lung capacity test (you blow into a tube as if you’re blowing out candles), and check on your family health history. You’ll also be asked *when* your symptoms are most severe to see if your asthma is allergy linked.
Usually, your every day doctor will be able to make the final diagnosis for you, but if you’re uncomfortable with the way this initial conversation goes or with the ultimate diagnosis you’re given, be sure to get a second opinion.