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Allergy treatment

Allergies are caused by our body's hypersensitive reaction to substances in our environment. Below, we'll cover what you can do about your allergies and how MinuteClinic® can help you manage your allergy symptoms.

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Looking for information on allergy treatment and support? We’ve got you covered.

What are allergies?

Allergy symptoms occur when the immune system detects a substance that's harmless to most people but triggers an overreaction in people sensitive to it. That substance is called an allergen. Allergies can be caused by food, mold, pollen or a change of seasons.

The immune system produces antibodies that are on alert for that specific allergen. When exposed again, the antibodies can trigger the release of immune system chemicals like histamine. This release leads to allergy symptoms.

Depending on the allergen involved, a variety of symptoms can occur, ranging from mild to severe. These symptoms can affect different parts of the body, including:

  • Airways
  • Digestive system
  • Sinus and nasal passages
  • Skin

How are allergies treated?

  • Allergen avoidance: Identify and avoid your allergy triggers. Avoiding allergens is important when you want to prevent reactions and reduce symptoms.
  • Medications: Depending on the allergy, over-the-counter or prescription medicine can reduce your immune response and ease symptoms. These medicines can be in the form of eye drops, liquid, nasal sprays or pills.
  • Emergency epinephrine: If you have a severe allergy, you may always need to carry an epinephrine autoinjector. Epinephrine injections, such as from an EpiPen, can reduce symptoms until you receive emergency treatment.

Getting help

MinuteClinic providers can assess symptoms and assist you in creating a treatment plan to help you feel better. They can also prescribe medication. If your allergies are not well controlled and you've tried treatments, a provider may recommend allergy testing or help you follow up with a specialist.

  1. You will answer a few questions about symptoms to help us prepare for your visit prior to scheduling your appointment.
  2. The check-in process varies depending on how you scheduled your appointment:

    If you made your appointment online:

    Check in using the email or text message we sent to confirm your appointment. If you prefer to check in using the electronic kiosk, make sure you have your confirmation code.

    If you made your appointment in the clinic:
    Sign in at the electronic kiosk.

  3. When it's time for your appointment, a provider or other staff member will call your name.
  4. Your provider will conduct a thorough examination based on your reason for visiting, presenting symptoms and health history. Charges will be based on examination and services provided 
 during the visit.
  5. At the end of your visit, you are provided with a visit summary, receipt and educational material about your diagnosis. At your request, we can send your primary care provider information about your visit.

Allergy causes and symptoms

Allergies occur when your immune system reacts to a foreign substance. Allergy types that can cause a reaction include the following:

  • Airborne allergens, including mold, animal dander, dust mites and pollen
  • Certain foods, particularly peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, milk, wheat, soy, fish and shellfish
  • Insect stings from insects such as bees or wasps
  • Latex or other materials can trigger an allergic skin reaction on contact
  • Medications, particularly penicillin or penicillin-based antibiotics

There are many possible allergy symptoms, some of which are similar to those caused by the common cold. These include the following:

  • A runny or stuffy nose and sneezing. These can be the result of an upper respiratory infection or allergies.
  • Wheezing and shortness of breath. These are common asthma traits but can also be symptoms of allergies.
  • Coughing. A dry, persistent coughing may indicate allergies.
  • Rash. Allergies can cause rashes, such as dermatitis, eczema and hives.
  • Fatigue. If you're feeling fatigue or irritability for an unknown reason, it may be a sign of untreated allergies.
  • Headaches. There are two types of headaches linked to allergies. A sinus headache is often felt as localized pain occurring over the sinuses. A migraine headache is often experienced as throbbing pain on one side of the head.
  • Nausea or vomiting. These reactions are associated with food allergies.
  • Hay fever. Despite the name, you do not need to be exposed to hay to develop symptoms. Hay fever does not cause an elevated temperature.

Fatigue can be a common symptom of allergies. Your body recognizes allergens as something to fight off. This is why your sinuses get blocked, and why you may sneeze and cough. The increased immune response requires energy, which can make you feel more tired.

Another reason allergies can make you tired is that congestion and cough can make it harder to sleep. This can result in more fatigue during the day. People who take prescription or over-the-counter allergy medications may also experience fatigue as a side effect.

Allergy prevention

Preventing allergic reactions depends on the allergy type, but in general, you may try the following:

  • Avoid known allergens. Even if you're treating your allergy symptoms, avoid the triggers. For example, if you're allergic to pollen, stay indoors with the windows and doors closed when the pollen count is high.
  • Keep a diary. Take notes on what triggers or worsens allergy symptoms. Track your activities, what you eat and what appears to help.
  • Wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace. If you have a severe reaction and are unable to communicate, others can get you help based on your specific allergy.
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IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ: This material is for reference only and should not be used to determine treatment for specific medical conditions. Please visit a health care provider for evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of any symptoms you may be experiencing. If you're experiencing a medical emergency, please dial 911 or visit your local emergency department.

 

REFERENCES USED AS SOURCES FOR THIS PAGE:

1Allergies via NHS. (Accessed 27th August 2024) 

2Allergies via Mayo Clinic. (Accessed 27th August 2024) 

3Allergy Symptoms via ACAAI. (Accessed 27th August 2024) 

4Fatigue via ACAAI. (Accessed 27th August 2024) 

5Are Allergies Making Me Feel Tired? via the New York Times. (Accessed 27th August 2024)