When a reaction to an outdoor allergen is suspected, the first step toward a diagnosis is usually a physical examination and complete medical history. Obtaining the patient’s medical history is important because the presence of other allergies, asthma or eczema (an itchy, noncontagious inflammation of the skin characterized by a patchy rash that is red, inflamed, dry and scaly) raises the likelihood of a person having reactions to outdoor allergens. A family history where allergies are common is another factor that predisposes a person towards outdoor allergies. A physician will take many other factors into account, such as the nature of symptoms and the time of year they occur.

A physician is also likely to administer allergy tests to pinpoint troublesome allergens. The most common method of identifying allergens is skin testing, but blood tests and x-rays or other types of imaging tests may be performed as well. Skin testing involves introducing a small amount of an allergen to the patient’s skin. The skin is then monitored for signs of a reaction. If a positive skin reaction to that allergen is detected, an allergy is likely.

The best way to minimize symptoms related to outdoor allergens is to follow a strategy of avoidance. In this strategy, the patient tries to minimize exposure to allergens that provoke a reaction.

Though avoidance is the best strategy for treating allergies, it does not work for everyone. In such cases, other treatments may be necessary. Although there is no medication available that can cure allergies, there are several types of medication (e.g., antihistamines, decongestants) available to address symptoms triggered by outdoor allergens.  Some medications are taken after the allergic reaction has occurred, to relieve symptoms. Others can help prevent the onset of symptoms.

Allergy shots are one form of treatment that can prevent allergy symptoms from occurring for long periods of time. When using this type of immunotherapy, a person is gradually exposed to increasing amounts of a diluted allergen, administered through regular injections over a period of weeks or months. The goal is to build up enough of a tolerance to the allergen so that symptoms are significantly reduced. This treatment method may be recommended for patients whose symptoms fail to respond to allergy medication, or those who experience symptoms for many months during the year.