Things she never knew about herself and why the allergist is T's new best friend.

As part of a vague New Year's resolution plot (never really sat down and made official lists this year, and we love lists! *Gasp*) T made her first ever appointment with an allergist. She loves the doctor and his office, did not love the allergen screens or having to come back two weeks later for a second screen, but did love how thorough the doctor has been; a much welcomed ally in the journey through this crazy maze that has become T's health in the past decade. Some of her symptoms have been confused by the many symptoms and complications of having Endometriosis (an autoimmune disorder) and by the fact that Endo is so little understood. Not a lot of places to look for answers.

Enter the Allergist! (Not unlike a superhero.) Right away he suggested the possibility of gluten being a factor, something we have long suspected as its been known to be a factor for Endo patients, and he ordered allergy screens, blood tests and a Celiac screen. All of which came back negative, which only means that she doesn't have to worry about anaphylaxis and doesn't need to see a gastroenterologist. They did say that her symptoms fell so closely in line with gluten intolerance/sensitivity that she is advised to give it up. Something we really saw as inevitable, but its good to have some level of confirmation. Surprisingly she turns out to have allergies to broccoli (and its cousins: cauliflower and Brussels sprouts), pork, and salmon. All of which has been cut from her diet...there might have been some relapses of the pepperoni kind, but she was immediately itchy (something she hadn't connected before) and agreed to give it up for good.

Today she had the second panel of screens, this time for environmental allergens. As suspected she is allergic to a variety of tree pollens and grasses, also dust mites (and tobacco, good thing she doesn't smoke) which keeps her congested year round! Good news is she is not allergic to Rhys; that was a big relief. Also fortunate is that all the allergies are mild and can be controlled with an over the counter medication and a prescribed steroid spray combo, sort of a one-two punch if you will, as well as some minor modifications at home. Air purifier, dust mite covers, showering at night (did you know how much pollen gets in your hair just from being outside?!), kicking the dog out of the bedroom (or just bathing him a lot more frequently).

We have a strong hope that these lifestyle changes will drastically reduce her migraines, both in severity and frequency, and will give her an overall health reboot. Not a bad start to 2012!