Allergic Reactions: When to Seek Care and Where to Go

Allergic reactions can happen unexpectedly. Whether triggered by foods, medications, insect stings or environmental allergens, symptoms can range from mild itching and sneezing to a potentially life-threatening emergency.

While some allergic reactions may be managed at home, others require medical attention. Knowing how to recognize symptoms and understand your care options can help you make informed decisions about when and where to seek treatment.

When Can You Manage an Allergic Reaction at Home?

Some mild allergic reactions may be manageable at home, depending on your symptoms, medical history and guidance from your health care provider.

Common mild symptoms include:

• Sneezing, a runny nose or itchy eyes
• Mild itching or localized skin irritation
• A small rash or redness
• Nasal congestion

Depending on the cause and severity of symptoms, over-the-counter allergy medications, including antihistamines, may help provide relief. Cool compresses may also help soothe irritated skin.

Keep in mind: Allergic reactions can change quickly. If symptoms worsen, new symptoms develop or you are unsure how serious a reaction may be, seek medical guidance.

When Should You Visit Urgent Care for an Allergic Reaction?

Urgent care may be appropriate for allergic reactions that need evaluation but do not involve symptoms of a potentially life-threatening reaction.

Examples include:

• Itching or hives without breathing difficulties or other concerning symptoms
• A localized rash that continues to worsen
• Swelling or irritation limited to the skin
• Symptoms that are not improving with appropriate at-home care

An urgent care provider can evaluate your symptoms, recommend treatment and determine whether additional care is needed.

When Is an Allergic Reaction an Emergency?

Some allergic reactions can cause anaphylaxis, a severe, potentially life-threatening reaction that requires immediate medical attention.

Call 911 immediately if you or someone nearby experiences symptoms such as:

• Difficulty breathing, wheezing or shortness of breath
• Swelling of the tongue or throat
• Trouble swallowing or a feeling of throat tightness
• Dizziness, fainting or sudden weakness
• A combination of symptoms affecting different parts of the body, such as hives with vomiting or breathing difficulties

If you have been prescribed an epinephrine auto-injector and suspect anaphylaxis, use it immediately as directed and call 911. Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis, and emergency medical evaluation is still necessary even if symptoms improve.

What Can Cause an Allergic Reaction?

Allergic reactions occur when the immune system responds to a substance it identifies as harmful, even when that substance is typically harmless to others.

Common triggers include:

• Foods, including peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish and milk
• Medications, including certain antibiotics
• Insect stings, such as bees or wasps
• Pollen, dust mites, mold and pet dander
• Latex and other substances that touch the skin

Reactions can vary from person to person, and the same allergen may cause different symptoms at different times.

Identifying potential triggers can help you and your health care provider develop a plan to manage future reactions.

How Are Allergic Reactions Treated?

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the reaction.

For mild symptoms, a health care provider may recommend antihistamines or other medications to help manage discomfort. More severe reactions may require additional treatment and monitoring.

For anaphylaxis, epinephrine is the recommended first-line treatment.

If you experience repeated allergic reactions or are unsure what is triggering your symptoms, your primary care provider may recommend additional evaluation or allergy testing.

Find the Right Care at Renown

Knowing where to go for an allergic reaction can help you receive the appropriate level of care when you need it.

• Primary Care: For mild or recurring allergic reactions, a primary care provider can help evaluate symptoms, identify potential triggers and recommend next steps.
• Urgent Care: For non-life-threatening allergic reactions that need prompt attention, Renown Urgent Care offers convenient care options.
• Emergency Care: For severe allergic reactions or signs of anaphylaxis, call 911 immediately.

Not sure where to start? A Renown primary care provider can help you understand your symptoms and determine the next steps for your care. Find a Renown primary care provider and schedule an appointment today.