Newswise — ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill. (July 9, 2012) – While a stuffy and runny nose, sore throat and sneezing can be signs of the common cold, these symptoms also indicate allergies. To help patients keep track of their symptoms for diagnosis and treatment, the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) has designed MyNasalAllergyJournal.org, a free online tool for patients looking to find relief from allergies.
My Nasal Allergy Journal is an easy-to-use tool that allows patients to record when and where they experience symptoms, what medications they use and how well those medications relieve their suffering. Personalized details, reports and statistics can be printed or shared electronically with an allergist.
“Because symptoms are closely related, patients often mistake their symptoms for a cold instead of allergies,” said allergist James Sublett, MD, chair of the ACAAI Public Relations Committee. “Misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment of nasal allergies can be costly and potentially dangerous. The My Nasal Allergy Journal will give users the information they need to bring to their allergist.”
Allergies are a major cause of illness in the United States. More than 40 million Americans have allergies, which cause mild to severe allergic symptoms. Allergic reactions can affect the nose, throat, eyes, lungs, skin, stomach or intestines. Rarely, they can affect the whole body.
“When patients are exposed to allergens, their body will continuously trigger an allergic response, making it important for them to know what they are allergic to and take steps to treat the reaction,” said Dr. Sublett. “Board-certified allergists are the best-trained health professionals to perform allergy testing and treat allergic diseases effectively.”
Patients who do not see an allergist may risk having test results misinterpreted which can lead to over-diagnosis and inappropriate management that can be harmful. It also may lead to over-prescription of medication and treatments, and costly and unnecessary allergen avoidance measures.
For more information about allergies, and to begin using the My Nasal Allergy Journal to find relief, visit www.AllergyandAsthmaRelief.org.
About ACAAIThe ACAAI is a professional medical organization headquartered in Arlington Heights, Ill., that promotes excellence in the practice of the subspecialty of allergy and immunology. The College, comprising more than 5,000 allergists-immunologists and related health care professionals, fosters a culture of collaboration and congeniality in which its members work together and with others toward the common goals of patient care, education, advocacy and research. For more information visit www.AllergyandAsthmaRelief.org.
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