Two-thirds of Americans have allergies; only half seek treatment

Approximately 67% of Americans have seasonal or perennial allergy symptoms, but only half are currently seeing a medical professional, according to a press release.

The survey was conducted online November 12-14, 2013 and included 2,047 adults aged 18 years and older, of whom 1,325 reported any seasonal or perennial allergy symptoms. Data indicated that 45% of patients who did not see a doctor were more likely to purchase over-the-counter medications that did not adequately reduce allergic reactions, according to the press release.

Jill Bryson

“Spring is a wonderful time, unless you suffer from untreated allergies. Unfortunately, millions of Americans are unaware that true allergy relief is accessible through their family doctor or primary care physician. Patients need to discuss symptoms during their next visit to the doctor and doctors need to encourage this conversation,” Jill Bryson, MD, primary care physician at Benton Family Clinic, a Baptist Health affiliate in Benton, Ark., said in the press release. “Golfers, runners, soccer players, outdoor enthusiasts — don’t miss out this year. Allergies can often be easily addressed through immunotherapy that provides long-lasting relief instead of briefly masking symptoms.”

The national survey was conducted by Harris Interactive on behalf of United Allergy Services, according to the press release.