Urgent Care for Allergies
If you are struggling with allergies, you are not alone. Millions of people suffer from allergies every year. Allergy symptoms occur when your body mistakes an ordinary, everyday substance as a dangerous intruder and fends off a perceived attack. The histamine defense your body produces causes allergy symptoms.
If you suspect you are having a mild allergic reaction or suffering from seasonal allergies, visit Bayside Urgent Care. Our medical staff is expert at treating this and other non-life-threatening emergencies. Note that if you suspect a severe allergic reaction, please call 911.
Located in Clearwater, Florida, we’re open seven days a week, Monday to Friday, from 8 am to 8 pm, and Saturday and Sunday, from 9 am to 6 pm. We’re always accepting new patients, and no appointments are necessary.
What Are Some Examples of Allergy Symptoms?
Allergy symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending upon your body’s reaction. Mild symptoms are similar to those of the common cold and may include:
- Sneezing
- Sore or itchy throat
- Congestion
- Puffy, itchy, or watery eyes
- Rash (i.e., hives) or itchy skin
- Post-nasal drip
Severe allergic reactions (also known as anaphylaxis) are life-threatening medical emergencies and should be treated in the emergency room. Symptoms of anaphylaxis can include:
- Shortness of breath and tightness in the chest
- Swelling of the lips, tongue, face, and throat
- Tingling in the mouth
- Cramps, nausea, and vomiting
- Sneezing
- Runny, stuffy nose
- Puffy, itchy, or watery eyes
- Itchy skin or a rash (i.e., hives)
How Can I Tell the Difference Between Allergies and a Cold?
While some mild allergy symptoms may mimic those of a cold, allergies last days to months, occur any time of the year, and usually have an immediate onset.
On the other hand, colds last three to 14 days, typically occur during the winter months, and symptoms appear over a few days.
What Causes Allergies
Potential allergens can occur anywhere and can trigger a response in the gut, skin, sinuses, airways, eyes, or the nose. Some of the most common are:
- Dust and plant pollen
- Food
- Insect bites and stings
- Medication
- Mold and mildew
- Pet dander, fur, or saliva
- Household chemicals
- Latex
- Metals
How Do You Diagnose Allergies?
Allergies are usually diagnosed by a blood test to measure antibody levels, skin prick tests, or a patch test.
How Can I Treat My Allergies?
If you can’t avoid the allergen, many over-the-counter treatments can help reduce symptoms.
- Antihistamines
- Decongestants
- Corticosteroids
There are also allergy shots that introduce the allergen into the person’s body in gradually increasing doses until they have a tolerance for people with year-round allergies.
What To Bring When Your Visit
If you believe you are having a mild allergic reaction, you can help us identify the cause by letting us know:
- Your symptoms
- When and how often they occur
- What seems to cause them
- If you have a family history of allergies
Also, be prepared to tell us about any medications you take (including vitamins and supplements), past illnesses and surgeries, and your primary care doctor’s phone number and address so we can transfer records, if necessary.
Does Bayside Urgent Care Accept Insurance?
Yes. We accept Medicare and most major insurance carriers. If you don’t have insurance or prefer to pay out-of-pocket, our services are reasonably priced and less expensive than an ER visit.
You Can Count on Bayside Urgent Care Center if You’re Suffering From Allergies
Our Center is located in Clearwater, Florida, conveniently situated to Largo, Belleair, Dunedin, and Indian Rocks Beach. If you are experiencing an illness, visit our office or call.
Open 7 days a week ● No Appointment Needed ● Online Registration
Hours: Monday - Friday 8 am to 8 pm, Saturday - Sunday 9 am to 6 pm
*Urgent care is not a substitute for emergency care. Always head to the nearest emergency room or call 911 if you are experiencing very serious or life-threatening problems. Read What is Urgent Care for more information.
