You must first have skin testing to find out which allergen you are allergic to.
You'll need to take regular shots for 3 to 5 years, and it may take a year or more for symptoms to improve (for some patients symptoms never improve).
Usually, they are effective, leading to fewer or less severe symptoms, and less frequent use of anti allergy drugs.
For some allergens, like some grasses, shots are effective for 3 to 4 years after completing the therapy.
It is very possible that your allergy attacks predispose you to developing sinusitis additionally.
The nose stiffness and difficulties with sleep are suggestive for sinusitis and you may also need to get checked and treated for a chronic sinusitis.

Best wishes!

Yes, I agree that you should see an allergist and get skin testing done. Although there is some controversy that skin testing is completely accurate, they are the best method there is to detect airborne allergens (food allergies is another story). When you know what is bothering you, you may be able to avoid it. You also may find (as I did) that you aren't allergic to somethings that you thought you were (I thought I was allergic to cats, but I'm not).

The shots are really a personal choice because they are such a commitment of time and money. My father chose to do them and he says that his allergies are much better, although he is far from "cured" even after 3 years of treatment.

If you plan to move in the future, the allergy shots aren't for you. Once you move, you may not be exposed to things you are allergic to and you may develop new allergies. For some people, moving really does help. A friend of mine moved to the desert and says she's never felt better.

Also, if all you are taking is over-the-counter allergy medication, you may need something stronger. A combination of oral medications and nasal sprays can work better than one alone. Air filters for your home (non-ozone producing), vacuuming frequently, and changing the filters in your heating/a.c. system every 3-6 months can help, as well. Make sure to use hypoallergenic products for washing clothes, cleaning your house, and on yourself (lotions, soaps, cosmetics, etc.).

The shots, like I said, are your choice. Try some of the other solutions to reduce the allergens in your home, go to the doctor and get some other medication, then see how you feel. Good luck. I hope you find some relief soon.

allergies are caused by a disfunction of the immune system of one form or another but the underlying cause is tow fold, or even three.
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