Experiencing allergies is a sign that your body’s immune system is active, but that’s probably little consolation if you’re at your wit’s end with stubborn symptoms. Constant sneezing and sniffling may leave you wondering if your allergies are typical for the average person as the seasons change—or if they’re unusually bad and warrant professional medical treatment.
While “bad” is relative, it’s always a good idea to visit a medical provider like Fast Track Urgent Care if over-the-counter medications and lifestyle adjustments like staying indoors don’t improve bothersome allergy symptoms, which may include:
- Chronic congestion
- Runny nose
- Itchy, watery, or red eyes
- Dark circles, or “allergic shiners,” beneath eyes
- Itchy skin
- Hives
- Sneezing
- Difficulty sleeping
- Fatigue
- Headache
When to Call 911 for Allergies
Some allergies warrant emergency care. Anaphylaxis—which can occur in people with severe allergies to certain medications, foods, or venom—causes life-threatening symptoms. It’s important to call 911 if you or someone around you experiences symptoms of anaphylaxis, which can include:
- Loss of consciousness
- Trouble breathing
- Wheezing
- Skin rash
- Nausea or vomiting
- A weak or rapid pulse
Walk-in Care for Bothersome Allergies
In non-life-threatening scenarios, Fast Track Urgent Care’s locations in Silver Spring and Kensington are excellent choices for allergy treatment. Our urgent care centers are open every day during extended hours, welcome walk-in patients, and offer simple online appointment scheduling. Plus, we treat patients of all ages and can discuss allergy symptoms over the phone through our Virtual Visits. Take the first step toward allergy relief by contacting us today!