Allergy

Allergies are triggered due to pollen, food, pets, pollution, and other environmental factors. Allergies can have a variety of symptoms depending on the allergen and how it enters the body. Some of the common symptoms of seasonal allergy include sneezing, stuffy nose, watery and itchy eyes, coughing and fatigue. Other symptoms also include rash, cough, swelling of lips or nose, headache, abdominal pain and nausea.

When to consult a doctor for an allergy?

If you have a severe allergic reaction

If you have difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or nasal passages, severe hives on the body, seek immediate medical attention by calling (000) or visiting your nearest hospital.

If you have chronic allergies that affect your daily life

If you have persistent allergies or if your allergies are affecting your daily activities, such as work or school or sleep, it is important to see a doctor and get the right treatment.

If you have other health conditions

If you have other conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, glaucoma, or lung issues, it is important to speak to a doctor and understand which treatment.

This guide does not replace professional care. Consult a doctor to manage your symptoms. In emergencies, call 000 or visit a hospital immediately. The content is research-backed & medically reviewed by Dr Vishnu Gopalan, Co-Founder & Chief Medical Officer at Hola.

Symptoms & triggers of allergies

Allergies can be the result of various factors, including:

Pollen from trees, grass, and weeds, dust mites, mould spores, and pet dander are also common triggers.
Peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, wheat, soy, fish, and shellfish.
Stings from insects like bees, wasps, fire ants, and even certain mosquitoes can trigger allergic reactions.
Certain medications can act as allergens for some individuals, causing reactions that can vary widely in severity.
Strong odours, fragrances, cleaning chemicals, and cigarette smoke can act as triggers for those with respiratory sensitivities.
Found in gloves, balloons, and various medical supplies, latex can trigger allergic reactions.
Rare allergies to sunlight or to physical triggers like cold, heat, or even exercise.

Prevention of allergies

With a GP’s advice, some self-care steps and prevention methods for allergies could include:

Identifying and avoiding triggers
Keep indoor air clean using regular ventilation, air purifiers, and dehumidifiers.
Shower and change clothes after outdoor exposure
Keep windows closed during peak pollen times
Regular cleaning and vacuuming
Avoid smoking and strong chemical scents
Maintain a healthy immune system
Nasal sprays for ongoing nasal congestion and inflammation.
Saline nasal rinses to clear allergens and reduce irritation.
Cold compresses for itchy, red, or swollen eyes.
Avoid scratching skin rashes or hives; use gentle skincare and moisturisers.

Telehealth for allergies symptoms

It is important to speak to a GP first to understand and manage your symptoms.

Hola Health provides a convenient way for you to consult a doctor online, 24/7 across Australia. Our AHPRA-registered Australian online GP will conduct a comprehensive assessment to provide the best possible care.

Start your GP consult now

Clinical note: An online GP consult helps provide medical advice for your allergy symptoms and evaluate if a face-to-face consultation or physical examination is needed. Telehealth is a complementary service; while an online Doctor can provide medical advice, prescriptions, doctor’s certificate and referrals for blood tests, a physical examination review is required for skin prick testing and definitive allergen identification (if suitable). After-hours bulk billing is available for eligible patients during Medicare-defined periods; otherwise, private fees apply. Consultations are secure, encrypted, and Australian-stored (in compliance with the Australian Privacy Principles). Documents such as pathology referrals, specialist referrals, med certs online or scripts are provided only if clinically indicated. In case of difficulty breathing, swelling of the tongue or throat, a tight chest, or feeling faint, or if you have a severe allergic reaction, call 000 immediately. We recommend sharing your consult summaries with your regular GP to ensure continuity of care.