A new survey reveals that the majority of those with an allergy have reduced quality of life.
Around 50 million Americans suffer from some form of allergy.

The symptoms - stuffy nose, fatigue, sneezing, for instance - are often confused with those of the common cold. The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) has just conducted a survey which reveals that 94 per cent of those with an allergy admit to a reduced quality of life.

Having an allergy can affect work productivity, sleep, concentration and even your sex life, according to the survey. Despite this, only 50 per cent of those questioned believed that their allergy was a serious medical condition. Most had not consulted a specialist about the problem. The ACAAI believes this attitude is mistaken. Instead of trying one remedy after another - which many of those surveyed did - it is best to get appropriate medical help to identify the source of the allergy and find the best way of treating it.

Source

American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology 29th August 2002