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, 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. See a doctor to manage acne symptoms. In emergencies, call 000 or visit a hospital immediately. The content is research-backed & medically reviewed by Dr Vishnu Gopalan, MBBS, FRACGP, Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer, Hola Health &  Dr. Ammar AL-ANI, MBChB, CCBST, AMC. Last updated on 7 Oct 2026

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.

Causes of Allergies

Common causes include:

Foods: Milk, eggs, nuts, wheat, or shellfish may trigger a reaction in some people.
Dust mites: Tiny creatures in house dust can cause year-round symptoms.
Pollen: Grass, weed, and tree pollen can cause hay fever symptoms.
Pet dander: Proteins on animal skin, fur, or saliva can cause a reaction.
Insect bites and stings: Some people may react strongly to them.
Some medicines: Certain medications may cause allergic reactions.

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.

Management for Allergies

Treatment depends on your triggers and the severity of your symptoms.

Antihistamines – help reduce mild to moderate symptoms
Nasal sprays or eye drops – ease hay fever symptoms
Adrenaline autoinjector – for people with severe allergies (anaphylaxis)
Allergy testing and specialist referral – to identify your exact triggers

Note: The content on this page is for general informational purposes only. Hola Health provides online doctor consultations and management where clinically appropriate. Telehealth does not replace in-person care where a physical examination is needed. If you’re experiencing a medical emergency, call 000.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get allergy management through an online consultation in Australia? 

Yes. A telehealth consultation with a doctor can help assess and manage many allergy issues. Online consultations can assist with the management of mild to moderate allergy symptoms. Some allergic problems may still need an in-person assessment or specialised testing.

What type of allergies can an online doctor help with? 

An online doctor can help evaluate and manage:   

Hayfever (seasonal allergies) 
Dust and pollen allergies 
Mild skin sensitivities or rash 
Food allergy concerns 
Pet allergies 
Mild allergic responses

Please note that severe allergic reactions require immediate medical treatment.   

When should I see an allergy specialist instead of an online GP? 

You may require a specialised evaluation if you have: 

Severe or recurring allergic responses 
Suspected food allergies are causing severe symptoms 
Allergies cause difficulty breathing 
Symptoms do not improve with current therapy 
Complex allergy history

Certain problems may necessitate allergy testing or an in-person evaluation. 

Can a Hola Health online doctor help with hay fever (seasonal allergies) 

Yes. A doctor can evaluate hay fever symptoms and provide management options, including symptom-relief measures and medication, if clinically appropriate.  

Can I get a medical certificate if allergies prevent me from working? 

It depends. If the doctor determines that it is clinically suitable, a medical certificate may be granted. Medical certifications are not guaranteed, and they are granted at the doctor’s discretion.  If you have life-threatening symptoms or serious medical concerns, contact 000 or go to the local Emergency Department right away. 