Allergies
Allergies can be seasonal, or affect you all year. During allergic reactions, your immune system releases histamines, which trigger the allergy symptoms. Common allergens include certain foods, dust, insect bites, medications, mold and pollen.
Customized care for allergies
If sudden or seasonal allergies are causing discomfort, we are committed to providing relief.
The specialists at CareNow® urgent care build treatment plans for non-life-threatening and seasonal allergic reactions. With more than 225 locations nationwide, we are proud to support you and your family seven days a week.
Our services to treat allergies and hives
If non-life-threatening allergic symptoms occur, visit us for a diagnosis and treatment.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction
Allergic reactions can vary. Some of the most common symptoms are:
- Anxiety
- Chest tightness and wheeziness
- Confusion
- Difficulty breathing
- Hives
- Itchy skin
- Itchy eyes
- Redness or rashes
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Swelling of the tongue or throat
Symptoms of hives
Red welts on the skin are the main symptom of hives. Welts can be small and round, ring-shaped, or even as large as a dinner plate. They can change shape and spread. Sometimes, hives disappear and reappear over the course of an outbreak.
Treatments for hives
In mild cases of hives, you may not need prescription treatment. You can seek temporary relief by:
- Avoiding hot water
- Avoiding irritating the area
- Taking antihistamines
- Taking a cool or lukewarm bath with colloidal oatmeal or baking soda
If you break out in hives, consider possible causes, such as, stress, food or any other external cause. If you have chronic hives or hives that do not go away, visit one of our healthcare providers.
Signs of anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis or anaphylactic shock is the most serious kind of allergic reaction. Your body releases a flood of chemicals that causes your blood pressure to drop and your airways to narrow and block your breathing. The reaction begins very quickly and can be life-threatening.
If you or someone you know is experiencing anaphylaxis, call 911 immediately.
Treatments for non-life-threatening allergies
Since there are so many different kinds of allergies, treatments may vary, too. Sometimes, over-the-counter antihistamines can treat mild and seasonal allergies. These medicines block the symptom-causing chemicals your immune system releases during the reaction. Certain medications are available over the counter, while others require a prescription.