Pollen Driving You Mad? The Allergist Can See You Now — Online!

Spring is a season best described by warmer weather and the blooming of flowers and trees, but it’s also a key time for seasonal allergies. And whether you’re struggling with nasal congestion or itchy, watery eyes, the effects of pollen on our bodies can be uncomfortable and disruptive. Fortunately, these aggravating side effects can be alleviated with professional help and the right treatment options.

As the health care system continues to shift toward virtual visits with doctors and other specialists, consultations for those with allergies have also found a place online. GoodRx, the leading resource in health care savings, offers online allergy immunotherapy consultations to help find the treatment plan that works best for you.

In order to understand how to treat those bothersome allergies, it’s best to start by identifying what exactly seasonal allergies are and what causes them. From there, you can explore the treatment options available and learn how to best use GoodRx to book an online allergy consultation as soon as today.

What Are Seasonal Allergies?

For those who find themselves struggling with seasonal allergies each year, you’re not alone. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a staggering 19.2 million adults were diagnosed with hay fever in the past 12 months.

But what exactly causes seasonal allergies? As flowers and trees begin to bloom, pollen is released into the air. Once the pollen is airborne, it can cause hay fever (sometimes referred to as allergic rhinitis or seasonal allergic rhinitis). Hay fever is also the allergic response to airborne substances such as dust mites, mold and animal hair. Hay fever can cause symptoms that include sneezing, a stuffy or runny nose, itchy eyes, ear congestion and postnasal drainage.

What Are Your Treatment Options?

From throat sprays to oral tablets, there are a variety of medications available for allergy sufferers. Many allergy medications, including a number of antihistamines, are available over the counter (OTC). A sort of one-stop shop for allergy treatment, antihistamines tackle most symptoms, including sneezing, runny nose, nasal drainage and itchiness. Among the most common OTC antihistamines are Claritin, Zyrtec, Allegra and Benadryl.

In addition to antihistamines, there are medications that treat specific ailments. For example, expectorants are used for chest congestion, while decongestants work to relieve nasal congestion and any pressure and pain you may feel in your head or sinuses.

Here’s How GoodRx Can Help You Find Relief

Through GoodRx, those considering online allergy immunotherapy can schedule a same-day visit with an allergist — whether you have insurance or not. These visits take place virtually and can help assess symptoms and develop personalized treatment plans.

As part of your online allergy immunotherapy consultation, you’ll receive an at-home allergy test kit to help decipher what exactly your environmental allergies are. You may also be referred to a local lab to confirm your environmental allergies. Similar to an in-person visit with an allergy clinician, a prescription for an allergy treatment can be prescribed if one is needed during your virtual visit.

Prepare For Your Consultation

To make the most out of your virtual visit with an allergist, make sure you’re just as prepared as you would be for an in-person visit. That means making sure you have a few things handy, including any known allergies, a list of medications you are currently taking (including OTC drugs, vitamins, minerals, herbs and samples from your doctor) and what medications you have already tried (if any). Also, be sure to jot down any pressing questions you may have about your seasonal allergies.

Ready To Book Your Appointment?

When you’re ready to finally bid adieu to your itchy nose, runny eyes and other seasonal maladies, GoodRx makes it super simple to schedule an online appointment. Thanks to their easy-to-use tool, you’re able to choose your state, insurance and delivery option to find a provider that best fits your needs. From there, you have the option of choosing a video allergy consult today, tomorrow or within a few days. It’s a process capable of saving you both time and money.

Learn more about booking an online allergy immunotherapy consultation through GoodRx.