Woe is Me!

This is somewhat of a boohoo post. Start playing world's smallest violin background music. As most of my family is well aware, I am a severe allergy sufferer. I'll go into the boogery details in a minute, but first, here are some stats:

• About 55% of adults test positive for at least one allergen.
• Allergic rhinitis (nasal allergies) affects up to 30% of adults and 40% of children.
• From 2000-2005, the cost of treating allergic rhinitis went from $6 billion to more than $12 billion, with more than half of that being spent on prescription meds.
• It's estimated that allergic rhinitis affects more than 60 million people in the US.
• www.aaaai.org

I have been suffering from allergies from day one. I've seen doctors, taken the meds, been on shots, moved around, and have never experienced relief. I am allergic to any plant that lives outside (and cats), which means I'm doomed wherever I go. My symptoms include swollen, running, itching eyes; itchy, burning throat; boogery nose; sneezing; coughing; sinus headaches; clogged ears; fatigue... all at the SAME TIME! Also, when I was a teenager I developed growths in my nose, that, when inflamed, swell up and make it impossible to inhale or exhale (so blowing is hard). Great mental image... So, yes, I am as miserable as I sound. Last year, I had to stop driving because I couldn't see through my running, swollen eyes. I live with boxes of tissues in every room. It's hard for me to give Troy the attention he needs (especially when he wants to be outside). Sleeping at night is near impossible with a swollen nose and sore throat.

I had a visit with our local allergist last summer and that didn't go well. Not only was the doc rude and unsympathetic, he was also unwilling to work with my budget which means there was absolutely no way I could afford to even get tested. (Really?! It costs how many thousands of dollars to have a scratch skin test done?!) None of the sample meds he gave me made a dent. He lectured me on things I've known for 15 years now. Fast forward to this summer, I've already gotten so desperate for relief that I scheduled an appointment to see an Ear, Nose and Throat doc that says he also does allergy testing/treatment. I'm hoping he can do something about my swollen nose and maybe that will help with some of my other symptoms. Hopefully he has something positive to tell me. And it also helps my medical insurance deductible is already met from my gallbladder surgery in January.

The reason I'm posting this is because misery loves company, right? I don't know if anyone reads this page, but if you do I could use some advice--what's worked for you? Has anyone tried homeopathic allergy remedies? What locales are good for allergy sufferers? Are you as miserable as I am?

I sympathize with anyone who is chronically ill--it affects every aspect of your life. Come complain to me! I experience the WORST of EVERY symptom, so I can provide good understanding if no one around you quite gets it. Love to all!