For years I've been battling allergies and right about this time of year, I could always look forward to a major afternoon slump leading to a fog-headed drive home and then bedtime around 8 p.m. While I consider myself pretty lucky in terms of health, I also can't help but notice Mother Nature has upped the ante a bit for me this year and it's becoming a quality-of-life issue at this point.
My usual symptoms -- which run about four months -- are much more intensified -- extra pressure from the congestion, much more painful headaches, and a new one this year -- nausea. (I have it as I write this.)
So next Friday, I'm heading to a specialist. In exchange for 90 minutes of my time, they'll give me a scratch test on my arm as well as perform various testing on my back. They'll also review the four-page questionnaire that plumbed my medical history as well as what activities cause me the greatest grief (Sweeping, mowing the lawn, etc.) I'm told I can count on at least two more follow-up appointments -- the last detailing an actual plan of attack. Will let you know what I find out, and hopefully any information I share may possibly benefit someone else.