New to the group

[Guest guest]

I am in the Army and I have lived in several places. Now I am in Ft

Sill (Lawton), OK and my allergies have gotten worst and they are

effecting my asthma. I use to run a lot (and hard) but now I can't

run as fast as I use to and if I try my asthma starts to flare up. I

haven't been hospitalized but I am afraid one day I may have to

living here. I got here in Feb 2007 and will be here til Feb 2010.

I was on 4 med for my asthma and allergies (in Alabama), now I am on

8.

I went to an off-post ENT with an allergic section as a part of their

practice. My Army doctors thought I had sinus problems but it is

just my allergies that keep make me sick (4 sinus infections in 6

months and numerous colds). I asked the doctor about Xolair and he

hasn't heard of it. I asked his allergy nurse about it and she said

that they don't prescribe it. I have to take a skin test and get off

my allergy meds for a few days (and suffer) even though I did the

RAST test (but on meds).

They want be to start allergy shots but I want Xolair. Has anyone

had any success with allergy shots? Was it whether trying? Can you

do allergy shots and Xolair at the same time? Should I just go back

to my Army doctor and try to get Xolair? The Army has its own

insurance so cost isn't a problem but special ordering maybe.

This constant sickness is effecting me being a Soldier, taking care

of my family and getting promoted (which of course effects both).

Please help the new person to the group with your advice and

experience.

Serving our country,

Dineen