Allergic reactions can happen at any time. Some may be mild, while others can be more serious. In some cases, symptoms get better on their own. In others, quick medical care is needed. That is why it is important to know when Urgent Care is the right place to go.
This blog explains common allergic reactions and how to know when to seek help from Urgent Care.
What Is an Allergic Reaction?
An allergic reaction happens when the immune system overreacts to a substance that is usually harmless. According to MedlinePlus, common allergens include foods, insect stings, medications, pet dander, or pollen. The immune system may treat these allergens as threats. So, the immune system tries to fight them off. This can lead to allergy symptoms.
Reactions can be mild, moderate, or severe. Some may cause a runny nose. Others may affect breathing. In rare cases, they can become life-threatening. Every reaction is different.
Common Symptoms of Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions can vary from person to person. According to the Mayo Clinic, MedlinePlus, and Healthline, symptoms may include:
- Sneezing or a runny nose
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Skin rashes or hives
- Swelling of the lips, tongue, or face
- Stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting
- Shortness of breath or coughing
- Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
Some symptoms may start out mild but get worse over time. It is important to watch them closely.
What Is Anaphylaxis?
Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that needs emergency care. According to the Mayo Clinic, it can begin seconds or minutes after exposure to an allergen. Signs of anaphylaxis include:
- Difficulty breathing
- A drop in blood pressure
- A rapid or weak pulse
- Fainting or dizziness
- Severe swelling of the throat or tongue
Dial 911 or go to the emergency room right away if these symptoms appear. Anaphylaxis can be life-threatening if not treated quickly.
When to Go to Urgent Care
Urgent Care is a good option for allergic reactions that are non-life-threatening but still need fast treatment. According to Healthline, you should consider visiting Urgent Care if you have:
- Mild hives or rashes that spread or itch
- Mild to moderate swelling
- Minor breathing issues, such as coughing or wheezing
- Eye irritation caused by allergens
- Allergy symptoms that do not get better with medication
Urgent Care providers can treat these symptoms early and help stop them from getting worse.
How Urgent Care Can Help
Urgent Care teams can check your symptoms and create a personalized treatment plan. Treatment may include:
- Antihistamines to reduce itching and swelling
- Creams or steroids to calm skin irritation
- Breathing treatments for mild breathing problems
- Epinephrine injections if symptoms worsen
- Allergy testing or referrals to a specialist
Quick treatment can ease symptoms. It can also help you better understand your allergy triggers. This can help you manage future reactions.
Tips for Managing Allergies
The Mayo Clinic recommends the following steps:
- Carry medications, such as antihistamines or an epinephrine auto-injector
- Wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace if you have serious allergies
- Let your doctors know about past medication reactions
- Avoid allergens like certain foods, animals, plants, or perfumes
- Wear protective clothing to limit skin exposure
Knowing your triggers could help you avoid them. Having the right medications on hand can prevent serious reactions and may even save your life.
Visit Clinicas
At Clinicas del Camino Real, Inc., we offer CAREPLUS Urgent Care Services for fast, affordable care. No appointment is needed. We also provide CAREPLUS Urgent Care Virtual Visits, so you can get care from the comfort of your home.
Allergic reactions vary. For moderate reactions that could become worse, Urgent Care is a smart choice. It reduces wait times and costs while providing quick, quality care. Our providers are here to quickly make a difference in your life by supporting better health.