Overcoming Barriers to Successful Allergy Treatment

When you first start treating your nasal allergy symptoms you may feel that you’re faced with many barriers to getting the relief that you need. Here are a few common barriers and some success strategies for getting the most out of your allergy symptom treatment.

Barrier: My doctor is very busy and I don't feel like I have time to ask a lot of my questions.

Success Strategy: You have a right to be informed. Your doctor wants you to feel better, so tell him or her that you'd like to spend a few minutes discussing your questions at the beginning or end of your visit. Then start by asking those questions that are most important for you. Ask if there are nurse practitioners or other staff available for you to talk with, as well.

Barrier: I feel embarrassed asking questions about my allergies.

Success Strategy: Part of your health care provider's job is to provide you with information about your condition and how you can feel better. Health care providers are used to answering questions. The only "silly" question is the one that doesn't get asked.

Barrier: I can't remember what I wanted to discuss or ask about until after I leave the health care provider's office.

Success Strategy: Make a plan before you go for your visit. Think about what you'd like to accomplish and what questions you'd like to ask. For instance, maybe you want to talk about your allergy medicines' side effects and ask about changing your dose or when you take it. Make a list of your questions and take it with you.

Barrier: I don't remember everything my health care provider says.

Success Strategy: Take a notepad and write down what your doctor says, or bring along a friend or family member. Also, ask if there is any printed information you can take home with you.

Barrier: I get nervous when I go to my doctor and have trouble talking about my condition.

Success Strategy: Planning ahead helps. Bring along a list of the key points you want to cover. If it makes you more comfortable, ask a trusted friend or family member to go with you. Also, use the tools you find here, such as the Doctor Discussion Guide. Take them with you and use them to discuss your issues.

Barrier: I don't know when I should call my doctor.

Success Strategy: Ask your health care provider for a list of any allergy symptoms that might require immediate attention. Also, ask which medicine side effects you should watch for, including the ones that are just bothersome and those that may be more serious.

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