Pluto2200

Member
Joined
Nov 12, 2021
Messages
14
I've been trying to do my research but have seen multiple conflicting answers on this topic and was hoping someone could help me out.

I've noticed that on the USAFA and AFROTC websites it says that history of seasonal allergies past age 12 can be a DQ. I'm currently 14 and get seasonal allergies, but however I would not say they are severe. I've never gone to the doctor for them or gotten tested because it hasn't bothered me to that point. My symptoms are just the basic itchy eyes, congestion, sniffling, and sneezing. I do take non-perscription medication like allegra and zyrtec sometimes just for more comfort. I am scared that this would cause a DQ from getting a pilot slot, possibly from being in USAFA or AFROTC at all. Should I stop taking my over the counter meds? Should I drop the possibility of being a AF pilot all together because of this? Im very nervous and any help would be amazing, thank you.
 
I've been trying to do my research but have seen multiple conflicting answers on this topic and was hoping someone could help me out.

I've noticed that on the USAFA and AFROTC websites it says that history of seasonal allergies past age 12 can be a DQ. I'm currently 14 and get seasonal allergies, but however I would not say they are severe. I've never gone to the doctor for them or gotten tested because it hasn't bothered me to that point. My symptoms are just the basic itchy eyes, congestion, sniffling, and sneezing. I do take non-perscription medication like allegra and zyrtec sometimes just for more comfort. I am scared that this would cause a DQ from getting a pilot slot, possibly from being in USAFA or AFROTC at all. Should I stop taking my over the counter meds? Should I drop the possibility of being a AF pilot all together because of this? Im very nervous and any help would be amazing, thank you.
I was worried about this issue not too long ago and was relived to find out that seasonal environmental allergies are ALMOST always waviered depending on the severity. Also, if you haven’t gotten tested then you dont know for sure if you have allergy’s so do not assume you do.
 
If they aren't diagnosed by an allergist you do not have them. It is that simple. Do not "self diagnose".
Too this point, unless you have a condition - in this case seasonal allergies - that has been diagnosed by a doctor, it is not necessary to list it on your medical paperwork. If you choose to do so, it will simply open up other requirements and tests that you may have to take. As noted, do not "self diagnose" any condition.
 
:wave:I survived the DODMERB DQ for Allergic rhinitis - a diagnosis associated with a group of symptoms affecting the nose. These symptoms occur when you breathe in something you are allergic to, such as dust, animal dander, or pollen....

@T-37IP is spot on - do not self-diagnose. If you have this under control with over the counter meds (OTC), problem solved. If this is not currently in your medical record, do not introduce it. I had a prescription and took shots to control my seasonal allergies. In my case (and every situation is different), I was asked (for the waiver) to drop the prescription and get a Dr. note indicating that OTC meds were sufficient for my condition. Upon arrival at USAFA - they saw the history and asked if I wanted a prescription during in-processing.... WHAT? I said no thanks AND I never had allergies in Colorado.
 
ACTUAL FACTS:

1. Seasonal allergies are NOT DQ, therefore there are no waivers.
2. Allergic Rhinitis is NO longer a DQ.
3. In general, a diagnosis is NOT required to be DQd by DoDMERB.
4. In general, failure to disclose medical conditions "may" be considered for separation at all US Service Academies.
5. In general, all medical history questions are prefaces by: "Have you ever had or do you now have?" That's the question to be answered...not "Have you ever been diagnosed or did your grandmother tell you had....":wiggle:
 
ACTUAL FACTS:

1. Seasonal allergies are NOT DQ, therefore there are no waivers.
2. Allergic Rhinitis is NO longer a DQ.
3. In general, a diagnosis is NOT required to be DQd by DoDMERB.
4. In general, failure to disclose medical conditions "may" be considered for separation at all US Service Academies.
5. In general, all medical history questions are prefaces by: "Have you ever had or do you now have?" That's the question to be answered...not "Have you ever been diagnosed or did your grandmother tell you had....":wiggle:
All of this 100% perfectly accurate and Mullen is a heck of a source for all things DoDMERB.

To add a personal note, I have pretty active seasonal allergies that were actually diagnosed. When asked about allergies I simply wrote “seasonal” and then declined any medication. This acknowledges that they exist without making them a problem. I was worried about losing flight status but seasonal allergies are the least of their concerns when it comes to flying.

Additionally, Colorado has practically nothing to be allergic to. I’ve had my face in the dirt on plenty of occasions and never had an issue. Maybe i get sniffles for a week or two when the trees and grass start pollinating but that’s in May and hardly a problem.
 
ACTUAL FACTS:

1. Seasonal allergies are NOT DQ, therefore there are no waivers.
2. Allergic Rhinitis is NO longer a DQ.
3. In general, a diagnosis is NOT required to be DQd by DoDMERB.
4. In general, failure to disclose medical conditions "may" be considered for separation at all US Service Academies.
5. In general, all medical history questions are prefaces by: "Have you ever had or do you now have?" That's the question to be answered...not "Have you ever been diagnosed or did your grandmother tell you had....":wiggle:
Thanks so much!
 
Our honor and privilege to serve :wiggle:
 
Back
Top