So today, I went in for my first round of allergy testing and apparently have to head back for round two in a week.
Here's a few interesting things they're exploring:
My location: Right now, my home backs a major road. My issues started seven years ago -- about the time we moved into our home. Another interesting point is that my husband -- who works from home -- has experienced more cold and sinus infections in the last 18 months than he has in the entire 17 years that I've known him. The actual effects of exhaust can't be measured, but that may be a factor. Increased sensitivity perhaps?
The results from my prick tests: I had 51 different allergens injected into my back. It's honestly not as bad as it sounds. The lab assistant blew through test in less than three minutes so I didn't feel like I was being tortured. In fact, I was more ticklish than anything. Then I hung out for another 20 -- just enough time for some hives to form. In the end, it was more difficult for me not to scratch the areas where they noticed the bubbling up than it was to endure the pricking.
My symptoms: Apparently they more closely match Shift Work Sleep Disorder than allergies, but they're still investigating. Fatigue apparently does not present as a major symptom of allergies.
A few things I wasn't aware of:
I wasn't supposed to take over-the-counter sleep aids within three days of my testing. They contain the same ingredients as anti-histamines which help us sleep. I landed just outside the requisite time.
That's the update for now. Will let you know more next week when I find out more.