Primary & Urgent Care
Allergies & Reactions — Online Treatment, Same Day
Eyes watering, nose running, skin breaking out, or reacting to something you ate? A licensed provider can evaluate your allergy symptoms today and recommend the right treatment — without a waiting room or a referral.
Start a VisitAbout allergies
🌿 What is an allergic reaction?
An allergy is your immune system reacting to something it has mistakenly identified as a threat. Pollen, pet dander, certain foods, insect stings, medications, mold — to most people these are harmless. But for someone with an allergy, exposure to the trigger sets off an inflammatory response that can show up in the eyes, nose, throat, skin, digestive system, or lungs.
Allergies are extremely common. Seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) alone affects tens of millions of Americans. Many people manage for years with over-the-counter remedies that work inconsistently, not realizing that some prescription medications or prescription combinations may provide better symptom control when OTC treatments are not providing adequate relief.
For mild-to-moderate allergy symptoms, telehealth is an excellent fit. A provider can evaluate your full symptom picture, identify likely triggers, and recommend or prescribe the right treatment — often in a single same-day visit.
What we treat in this category
Seasonal and environmental allergies (hay fever, allergic rhinitis), allergic reactions to food, medications, insects, or contact triggers, skin reactions including hives and allergic rashes, eye allergies (allergic conjunctivitis), and ongoing allergy management including prescription antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, and leukotriene inhibitors.
🚨 Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency — call 911
Throat tightening, difficulty breathing, sudden swelling of the face or throat, a rapid or weak pulse, dizziness, or loss of consciousness after allergen exposure are signs of anaphylaxis. This is life-threatening. Use an epinephrine injector (EpiPen) if available and call 911 immediately. Do not wait. Do not take antihistamines instead. Telehealth is not appropriate for anaphylaxis or severe allergic reactions.
Types of allergies we treat
📋 Environmental, food, and other allergic reactions
Allergies come in many forms. Understanding which type you are dealing with matters because the triggers, symptoms, and treatment approaches differ. Here is how your provider thinks about the different categories.
- 🌸 Seasonal allergies (hay fever) Also called allergic rhinitis. Caused by airborne pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. Symptoms follow the seasons — often worst in spring and fall — and typically include sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, itchy or watery eyes, and postnasal drip. One of the most common allergy types and highly treatable with prescription medications.
- 🏠 Perennial (year-round) allergies Year-round nasal allergy symptoms triggered by indoor allergens: dust mites, pet dander, cockroach particles, or mold. Symptoms are similar to seasonal allergies but persistent. Many patients mistake perennial allergic rhinitis for a chronic cold or sinus condition.
- 👁️ Eye allergies (allergic conjunctivitis) Itchy, red, watery, or swollen eyes triggered by pollen, pet dander, dust, or other environmental allergens. Often accompanies allergic rhinitis but can also occur on its own. Prescription eye drops may provide stronger or faster relief than OTC options for many patients, particularly when OTC drops have not been effective. Note that eye pain, significant vision changes, or severe light sensitivity may indicate a condition other than allergic conjunctivitis and require prompt in-person evaluation.
- 🍤 Food allergies The immune system reacts to a specific food protein. The most common food allergens are peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, wheat, soy, fish, and shellfish. Mild-to-moderate reactions (hives, skin flushing, mild stomach upset) can often be evaluated and managed through telehealth. Your provider may also recommend follow-up with an allergist for testing and long-term management. Severe food allergy reactions warrant emergency care and an epinephrine prescription.
- 🐾 Pet allergies Triggered by proteins found in an animal's skin cells (dander), saliva, or urine — not the fur itself. Cats and dogs are the most common triggers, though other animals can also cause reactions. Symptoms are similar to other environmental allergies and respond well to the same treatments.
- 💊 Drug reactions Some patients develop allergic reactions to medications, most commonly antibiotics (especially penicillin-class drugs), NSAIDs, and sulfa drugs. Drug reactions can range from mild rashes to severe responses. Contact a healthcare provider promptly if you develop a rash or other symptoms after starting a new medication. Some reactions require the medication to be stopped immediately, while others should be evaluated before making any changes.
- 🌿 Contact allergies Skin reactions triggered by direct contact with an allergen or irritant, such as poison ivy, poison oak, certain metals (nickel), latex, fragrances, or cosmetics. Often presents as an itchy rash, redness, or blisters at the point of contact.
Signs you may need treatment
🔥 Recognizing allergy symptoms
Allergy symptoms range from mildly annoying to significantly disruptive. If over-the-counter medications are not controlling your symptoms, or if you have never been evaluated for allergies before, a provider visit is a good next step. The right prescription can make a meaningful difference in your daily quality of life.
| Symptom area | Common symptoms | Likely trigger type |
|---|---|---|
| 👃 Nose and sinuses | Sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, postnasal drip, reduced sense of smell | Seasonal, perennial, pet, mold |
| 👁️ Eyes | Itchy, red, watery, or swollen eyes; burning sensation; light sensitivity | Seasonal, perennial, pet, contact |
| 🫁 Lungs and airways | Coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath with allergen exposure. New or worsening wheezing or significant shortness of breath should be evaluated promptly in person. | Seasonal, pet, dust, mold, food |
| 🧴 Skin | Hives (red, raised, itchy welts), rash, redness, swelling, blistering, eczema flares | Food, drug, contact, insect |
| 🤢 Digestive system | Nausea, stomach cramping, vomiting, diarrhea within minutes to hours of eating | Food allergies |
| 😖 Mouth and throat | Tingling or itching in the mouth or lips, mild swelling of the tongue or lips | Food allergies, pollen-food syndrome |
⚠️ Go in person or call 911 immediately if you have:
Throat tightening or difficulty swallowing, trouble breathing or wheezing that is worsening, significant swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, a rapid or weak pulse, sudden drop in blood pressure, dizziness, fainting, or severe vomiting after allergen exposure. These are signs of anaphylaxis. Use an epinephrine injector if available and call 911. Do not use telehealth for these symptoms.
Allergy symptoms disrupting your daily life? A licensed provider can evaluate and treat you today.
Start a VisitHow online care can help
💻 Allergy treatment online — what works and what does not
Seasonal allergies, perennial nasal symptoms, eye allergies, mild-to-moderate skin reactions, and medication management are all well-suited for telehealth. Your symptom history, the timing of your symptoms relative to triggers, and your response to prior treatments give a licensed provider what they need to make an accurate assessment and prescribe the right treatment.
What telehealth cannot do is perform a physical allergy skin test or administer allergy shots. If immunotherapy is ultimately appropriate for your situation, your provider will help you understand when and how to pursue that with a specialist. For the overwhelming majority of allergy patients, prescription medications provide excellent control of symptoms without needing to go that route.
| What online allergy care can do | What it cannot replace |
|---|---|
| Evaluate your symptom pattern, triggers, and history | Skin prick testing or patch testing (requires in-person specialist) |
| Prescribe antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, eye drops, leukotriene inhibitors | Allergy immunotherapy / allergy shots (requires allergist referral) |
| Evaluate and treat allergic skin reactions including hives and contact rashes | Emergency evaluation for anaphylaxis or severe systemic reactions |
| Evaluate mild-to-moderate drug or food reactions | In-person evaluation for severe or rapidly progressing reactions |
| Provide an epinephrine injector prescription for patients with known severe allergies | Allergy testing for unknown allergen identification |
| Refill or adjust existing allergy prescriptions |
- ⏰ No wait for a specialist. Getting a referral to an allergist can take weeks or months. For prescription allergy medications, you do not need a specialist. A licensed provider can evaluate and treat you same day.
- 🏪 Your prescription goes to your local pharmacy. Antihistamines, nasal sprays, eye drops — sent to the pharmacy you already use. No mail-order required.
- 💰 No monthly subscription. A flat fee per visit. No required memberships to access our telehealth services.
- 🩺 A real clinical evaluation. A licensed provider reviews your full symptom picture, asks follow-up questions, and makes an individualized determination. Your health journey is unique to you, and your visit should reflect that.
★★★★★ Patient review
"I've had seasonal allergies my whole life and always just pushed through it. Finally tried a telehealth visit and got a prescription nasal spray. Within a few days I noticed a significant improvement. I had no idea I'd been suffering for years when something this effective was available."
Patient, MyPhysician360
Treatment options
💊 How allergies are treated
Allergy treatment is about reducing your immune system's overreaction to triggers. For most patients, this means a combination of avoiding known triggers and using medications that control symptoms. Your provider tailors the approach to which type of allergy you have and how significantly it is affecting your life.
- 💊 Antihistamines — first-line for most allergies Antihistamines block histamine, the chemical that drives most allergy symptoms: sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and hives. Second-generation antihistamines (cetirizine, fexofenadine, loratadine) are non-drowsy and taken once daily. They are available OTC and by prescription. Prescription-strength options and combination formulations are available when OTC options are insufficient.
- 💨 Nasal corticosteroid sprays — most effective for nasal symptoms Nasal steroid sprays are among the most effective treatments for persistent allergic rhinitis and are recommended as first-line therapy for many patients. They reduce inflammation directly in the nasal passages, controlling congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and postnasal drip. Note that many nasal steroid sprays are now available OTC. Prescription formulations or combinations may offer additional options when OTC sprays are not providing adequate control. Used daily, they work best when started before allergy season begins.
- 👁️ Prescription eye drops — for allergic conjunctivitis Prescription antihistamine eye drops or mast cell stabilizer eye drops provide faster, stronger relief for eye allergy symptoms than OTC options. Particularly helpful for patients whose eye symptoms persist despite oral antihistamines.
- 🌿 Leukotriene inhibitors — for combined allergy and asthma symptoms Montelukast (Singulair) and related medications block leukotrienes, chemicals that contribute to allergic inflammation. They are particularly useful when allergy symptoms are accompanied by asthma or when nasal steroids and antihistamines are not fully effective on their own. Because montelukast carries an FDA boxed warning regarding potential mood and behavior changes, your provider will determine whether it is appropriate for your situation.
- 💉 Epinephrine injectors — for patients with known severe allergies If you have a history of severe allergic reactions or anaphylaxis, your provider can prescribe an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen or equivalent). This is an emergency medication for use while waiting for emergency care — not a substitute for calling 911.
- 🧴 Topical treatments — for skin reactions and contact allergies Many skin rashes resemble allergic reactions. Your provider will help determine whether your symptoms are more consistent with an allergic rash, eczema, an infection, or another skin condition. Prescription-strength topical corticosteroid creams treat allergic rashes, contact dermatitis, and eczema flares more effectively than OTC hydrocortisone. Oral corticosteroids may be prescribed for short courses when skin reactions are more widespread or severe and when the benefits outweigh the risks. They are not a routine first-line treatment.
When to consider an allergist referral
Most allergy patients are well-managed with prescription medications from their primary care or telehealth provider. An allergist referral is appropriate when symptoms are not controlled despite optimal medication, when allergy testing is needed to identify unknown triggers, or when immunotherapy (allergy shots or sublingual tablets) is being considered for long-term desensitization. Your provider will help you determine if and when a specialist is the right next step.
Ready to try a treatment that actually works? A licensed provider can prescribe today.
Start a VisitWhat to expect
🗓️ Your visit, start to finish
Here is what happens from the moment you start your visit to when you have a plan in hand.
|
1
Describe your symptoms
Fill out a short intake covering your symptoms, when they started, what seems to trigger them, what you have already tried, and any relevant history. About 5 minutes. |
2
Meet with your provider
You speak with a board-certified provider who reviews your intake, asks follow-up questions about your exposure history and symptom patterns, and makes a clinical determination. This is a real clinical conversation, not a form review. |
3
Get a treatment plan
Your provider explains what they think is driving your symptoms and the recommended approach. If prescription treatment is appropriate, it is sent to your pharmacy same day. If a referral or specialist evaluation is warranted, they will tell you clearly. |
4
Follow up if needed
If symptoms are not improving after a few weeks on a new medication, or if your allergy pattern changes, a follow-up visit is easy to schedule. Allergy management often involves adjusting the approach over time. |
When will I start feeling better?
Antihistamines: many second-generation antihistamines begin working within 1 to 3 hours of the first dose. Nasal corticosteroid sprays: maximum effect builds over 1 to 2 weeks of daily use — they work best when used consistently, not just on bad days. Eye drops: relief typically within minutes to an hour. Skin reactions with topical steroids: improvement usually within a few days of consistent application.
Managing your allergies
🏠 Reducing exposure and supporting your treatment
Medication controls the immune response, but reducing allergen exposure reduces how hard that medication has to work. Here are the most effective strategies for each type of allergy trigger.
For seasonal and environmental allergies:
- →Check local pollen counts (available on weather apps) and limit outdoor time on high-count days, particularly in the morning when pollen is densest
- →Keep windows closed during high-pollen periods and use air conditioning instead
- →Shower and change clothes after spending time outdoors to remove pollen from hair and skin
- →Use a HEPA air purifier in your bedroom — where you spend the most continuous hours
- →For dust mite allergies: use allergen-proof mattress and pillow covers, wash bedding in hot water weekly, and keep humidity below 50%
- →Start your prescription nasal spray 1 to 2 weeks before your allergy season typically begins, not after symptoms are already bad
For food allergies:
- →Read ingredient labels carefully every time. Formulations change, and cross-contamination warnings matter.
- →Inform restaurant staff about your allergy and ask specifically about preparation methods and shared cooking surfaces
- →If prescribed an epinephrine auto-injector, carry it with you at all times and replace it before the expiration date
- →Wear a medical alert bracelet if you have a history of severe food allergy reactions
For skin and contact allergies:
- →Identify and avoid the specific trigger. If you are not sure what it is, your provider can help narrow it down based on the rash pattern and exposure history.
- →Switch to fragrance-free detergents, soaps, and personal care products
- →Apply prescription topical treatment consistently, not just when symptoms are at their worst
- →Keep affected skin moisturized — dry skin amplifies itch and inflammation
⚠️ Contact your provider if:
- Symptoms are not improving after 2 to 3 weeks on a new prescription medication
- A skin rash is spreading, becoming infected (warmth, pus, fever), or is not responding to treatment
- You develop new symptoms after starting a new medication — this may indicate a drug reaction
- Allergy symptoms are triggering or worsening breathing problems
- You have a known severe allergy and are due for an epinephrine prescription renewal
Care connected to your pharmacy
🏪 Your prescription. Your pharmacy. Same day.
Pharmacies are the front door of healthcare in most communities. We built MyPhysician360 to respect that. When treatment is appropriate, your prescription goes to the pharmacy you already trust, filled by the pharmacist who already knows you.
Already at the pharmacy picking up OTC allergy medication that is not cutting it? Many of our partner pharmacies have a MyPhysician360 QR code right at the counter. Start a visit from the aisle and get a prescription-strength option sent the same day.
- ✓When treatment is appropriate, prescription may be sent electronically to your pharmacy the same day
- ✓Pick up at your neighborhood pharmacy or any major chain
- ✓Home delivery available by request at many local pharmacies
- ✓No required memberships to access our telehealth services
- ✓If we cannot treat you online, you will not be charged
Frequently asked questions
❓ Allergy treatment online — your questions answered
Straight answers to what allergy patients ask most before their first visit.
Can I get prescription allergy medication through telehealth?
Yes. A licensed provider can evaluate your allergy symptoms online and prescribe antihistamines, nasal corticosteroid sprays, leukotriene inhibitors, prescription eye drops, topical corticosteroids, and epinephrine auto-injectors if appropriate. If you have been managing with OTC medications and they are not controlling your symptoms, a telehealth visit is a fast path to prescription-strength options.
My OTC allergy medication is not working. What prescription options are available?
Prescription options that often outperform OTC alternatives include higher-potency nasal corticosteroid sprays, combination antihistamine-decongestant formulations, prescription antihistamine nasal sprays (such as azelastine), prescription eye drops for allergic conjunctivitis, leukotriene inhibitors like montelukast, and short-course oral corticosteroids for significant flares. Your provider reviews what you have tried and recommends the best next step for your specific situation.
How do I know if I have seasonal allergies or a cold?
A few key differences: allergies cause itching (eyes, nose, throat) whereas colds typically do not. Allergy symptoms tend to follow a pattern tied to seasons or specific exposures and last as long as the exposure continues. Colds usually peak and resolve within 7 to 10 days and are often accompanied by body aches or a sore throat. Fever is uncommon with allergies but possible with colds. If you are not sure, a provider can help sort it out based on your symptom history and timing.
Can telehealth help with food allergy reactions?
For mild-to-moderate food allergy reactions, yes. If you experience hives, mild swelling, itching, or stomach symptoms after eating, a provider can evaluate what happened, prescribe antihistamines or topical treatments if appropriate, and discuss whether an epinephrine prescription is warranted going forward. Severe reactions involving throat swelling, difficulty breathing, or anaphylaxis require emergency care — call 911 immediately.
Can I get an EpiPen prescription through telehealth?
Yes. If you have a known history of severe allergic reactions, your provider can prescribe an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen or a generic equivalent) during a telehealth visit. Carrying an epinephrine injector is important for anyone with a history of anaphylaxis or severe allergy reactions to foods, insect stings, or medications. Your provider will also discuss how and when to use it.
Do you offer allergy testing?
We do not currently offer allergy skin testing or blood allergy testing through our telehealth service. Allergy testing is generally performed during an in-person evaluation, often by an allergist, though some primary care providers also offer testing. However, many patients can be effectively treated based on their symptom history and clinical picture without formal testing. If allergy testing is warranted, your provider will help you understand the next steps and who to see.
Can I get allergy treatment for my child?
Yes. MyPhysician360 provides care for patients of all ages, including children with allergy symptoms. Treatment recommendations for children depend on age, symptoms, and medication safety — not every allergy medication has the same pediatric approvals. Your provider will take your child's age and weight into account when prescribing. For young children with significant allergy symptoms or any child with breathing difficulty or a history of severe reactions, in-person evaluation is the right starting point.
How is allergic rhinitis different from a sinus infection?
Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) involves clear, watery nasal discharge, itching, and sneezing triggered by allergen exposure. Sinus infections often involve thicker, discolored discharge, facial pressure or pain, and sometimes fever or a feeling of illness. The treatments are different — allergic rhinitis responds to antihistamines and nasal steroids, while bacterial sinusitis may require antibiotics. A provider can help distinguish between the two based on your symptoms and how they developed.
Is this visit HSA or FSA eligible?
Yes. MyPhysician360 consultations are HSA and FSA eligible. Your visit cost is reimbursable through your Health Savings Account or Flexible Spending Account, making this accessible through your existing health benefits even without insurance.
Helpful resources
📚 Learn more about allergies
Trusted sources your provider may reference during your visit. Straight from the source.
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🌸 Patient education Allergies: symptoms, causes, and treatment Mayo Clinic Visit Mayo Clinic |
🔬 Clinical overview Allergy treatments and management overview Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) Visit AAFA |
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🌿 Pollen tracking Pollen.com — daily pollen counts and allergy forecast Pollen.com Check today's pollen count |
🍤 Food allergy resources Food allergy overview, management, and safety Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) Visit FARE |
Ready to feel better? Let's get started.
Answer a few questions, meet with a licensed provider same day, and get a personalized treatment plan. No required membership. Available in most states. Your prescription, if appropriate, may be sent to your pharmacy.
HSA & FSA eligible | No required membership | No charge if we can't help
Medical disclaimer & sources: The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Allergy evaluation and treatment require clinical assessment by a licensed provider. Not all allergy conditions are appropriate for telehealth management. Anaphylaxis and severe allergic reactions are medical emergencies requiring immediate in-person or emergency care — call 911. MyPhysician360 does not currently offer allergy skin testing or immunotherapy. Content informed by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI), and Mayo Clinic allergy guidelines. A licensed MyPhysician360 provider will review your complete health history before prescribing any medication. MyPhysician360 services are available in most states. Services are not currently available in Mississippi or Alaska.