Making The Diagnosis Not all that sneezes is hay fever. A number of other disorders can mimic hay fever, and effective treatment depends on accurate diagnosis. Another non-allergic condition called vasomotor rhinitis, especially common in women, results in irritable, congested nasal membranes. A deviated nasal septum is a structural disorder which can be confused with allergies. A variety of other conditions ranging from chronic sinusitis to an underactive thyroid gland are also sometimes mistaken for hay fever.
Several tests can help establish the correct diagnosis.
These may include a nasal smear to look for signs of infection or allergy, a CT scan of the sinuses to rule out infection, allergy skin tests or sometimes blood tests to identify specific sensitivities, and, of course, a careful physical examination. The most important diagnostic tool, however, is a detailed history by a physician knowledgeable about upper respiratory disorders. Those with more severe or persistent symptoms, however, may require more sophisticated therapies. The cheapest and safest approach is avoidance. Once the responsible allergens have been identified, strategies to minimize exposure can be employed.