The CDC estimates that 50 million people in the United States suffer from allergies, and no matter how well you follow your allergy regimen, you can’t always avoid a reaction. Sometimes, you’re unaware you have an allergy until the hives, runny nose, or watery eyes begin.
MyDoc Urgent Care in New York provides convenient walk-in care and same-day doctor visits for acute illnesses, including asthma and allergy attacks.
Their board-certified team, led by emergency medicine specialist Dr. Nabil Salib, is happy to answer questions about allergy symptoms and what to do when you’re experiencing a reaction.
Allergy symptoms range from mild to severe and may affect your skin, digestive system, airways, or nasal passages. The signs also vary depending on what substance your immune system considers dangerous.
Hay fever or pollen allergies, for instance, often cause sneezing, profuse nasal drainage, and itchy, watery eyes. Food allergy symptoms may include swelling of the tongue and throat and hives.
Generally, however, the most common symptoms of an allergic reaction are:
A severe allergic reaction may include the aforementioned symptoms as well as cough, shortness of breath, and wheezing.
Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate medical attention. It’s most often triggered by allergies to food, insect stings, or medications.
Symptoms of this severe allergic reaction include:
Someone experiencing anaphylaxis is going into shock, which can quickly lead to organ failure and death.
If you have a history of anaphylaxis or are at risk, you likely have an autoinjector that contains epinephrine. Use as directed during a reaction, and call for emergency medical help.
Also, consider obtaining a medical alert bracelet or card so that others are aware of your need for treatment.
Provided you aren’t experiencing anaphylaxis or a severe reaction, helpful home care for allergic reactions may include:
Try cool compresses to relieve discomfort caused by hives. If hives are widespread, take a cool (but not cold) or lukewarm bath. Avoid hot showers or baths since these irritate hives. Wear loose clothing to prevent irritation.
For itchy or red skin rashes, wash the affected area with mild soap, and rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove any surface irritants causing the symptoms.
If your rash occurred after exposure to poison ivy, poison sumac, or other external sources, remove and wash your coat, shirt, socks, or other clothing items.
Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream or lotion may help with mild itching. Schedule a same-day doctor visit at mydoc Urgent Care or try our walk-in service for moderate-to-severe itching or if you notice drainage from the rash.
Widespread allergy symptoms often respond well to an over-the-counter antihistamine or nasal spray. However, read labels carefully since some of these medications cause significant drowsiness and may make driving or work tasks a risk.
Always call 911 if you suspect anaphylaxis. Otherwise, our mydoc Urgent Care team recommends you come in for a visit whenever you’re concerned about allergy symptoms, especially if your allergies begin to interfere with your daily routine.
Also, come in for a visit if you develop new or widespread symptoms that aren’t responding adequately to home care.
Services available at mydoc Urgent Care include asthma and allergy testing that accurately identify the substances causing your reactions.
We use that information to customize a treatment plan that relieves your symptoms and may help you avoid future reactions.
Take advantage of our walk-in services, or contact the nearest mydoc Urgent Care office today by phone or use our online service to schedule a visit.
