Red Flags & When to Go In Person for Seasonal Allergies (Allergic Rhinitis)

Audience: adult

Seasonal allergies, also called allergic rhinitis, cause symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes when your body reacts to pollen or other allergens. Many people manage these symptoms at home or through telemedicine visits. However, some signs mean you should see a healthcare provider in person. These include severe breathing problems, high fever, or symptoms that do not improve with usual treatments. This guide helps you understand when to seek in-person care, what telemedicine can and cannot handle, and how to prepare for a virtual visit. Remember, telemedicine is a helpful tool but not a replacement for in-person medical care when serious symptoms occur.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath — seek emergency care immediately.
• Swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat — go to emergency services right away.
• High fever lasting more than 3 days or severe sinus pain — arrange prompt in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Mild to moderate allergy symptoms assessment and management.
• Medication advice and prescriptions for allergy relief.
• Education about allergen avoidance and symptom monitoring.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe allergic reactions or anaphylaxis.
• Physical examination for complications like sinus infections.
• Diagnostic testing such as allergy skin tests or imaging studies.
• Emergency care for breathing difficulties or swelling of face/throat.

What Are Seasonal Allergies?

Seasonal allergies happen when your immune system reacts to pollen from trees, grass, or weeds. Common symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, and sometimes coughing. These symptoms often come and go with the seasons and can affect your daily activities.

When to Consider In-Person Care

Most seasonal allergy symptoms are mild and can be managed at home or through telemedicine. However, you should seek in-person care if you experience:

These signs may indicate a more serious condition needing urgent evaluation.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine can be useful for:

A virtual visit can save time and reduce exposure to other illnesses during allergy season.

Limitations of Telemedicine for Seasonal Allergies

Telemedicine cannot replace in-person care when:

In these cases, visiting a healthcare facility is important for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

To get the most from your virtual visit:

After Your Telemedicine Visit

Follow your provider's instructions carefully. This may include:

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down your current symptoms and when they began.
• List any medications or treatments you are using.
• Note any recent exposure to allergens or changes in environment.
• Have a thermometer ready to check your temperature if needed.
• Find a quiet, well-lit space with a reliable internet connection for your visit.
• Prepare questions or concerns to discuss with your healthcare provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan and medication instructions given by your provider.
• Avoid known allergens as advised.
• Monitor your symptoms and note any changes or worsening.
• Schedule follow-up appointments if recommended.
• Seek immediate in-person care if you develop red flag symptoms such as difficulty breathing or swelling.

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose my seasonal allergies?

Telemedicine can help assess your symptoms and suggest if they are likely due to seasonal allergies. However, it cannot perform physical exams or allergy tests needed for a definitive diagnosis.

What should I do if my allergy symptoms get worse after a telemedicine visit?

If your symptoms worsen or you develop new symptoms like difficulty breathing, swelling, or high fever, seek in-person medical care promptly.

Are allergy medications safe to use without seeing a doctor in person?

Many allergy medications, like antihistamines, are safe and effective for mild symptoms and can be recommended during telemedicine visits. Always follow your provider's advice and report any side effects.

How can I reduce my exposure to allergens at home?

Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons, use air purifiers, wash bedding regularly, avoid outdoor activities when pollen counts are high, and shower after being outside to remove pollen from skin and hair.

When is it necessary to see a specialist for allergies?

If your symptoms are severe, do not improve with treatment, or if you need allergy testing or immunotherapy, your provider may refer you to an allergist for in-person evaluation.

Sources

1. Allergic Rhinitis — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Allergic Rhinitis — Mayo Clinic.
4. Allergic Rhinitis — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Telemedicine can provide guidance but is not a substitute for in-person evaluation when serious symptoms or emergencies occur. Always seek immediate care if you experience severe symptoms or red flags.