This article was clinically reviewed by Michelle Forcier, MD.
Introduction
Allergies can disrupt your daily life and finding the right medication and treatment plan can be challenging. At FOLX, we specialize in providing affirming, expert care tailored to the LGBTQIA+ community. Our clinicians understand the unique contexts of your life and offer personalized treatments for managing allergies effectively.
How do I know when I should see a clinician about allergies?
Allergies are very common, but also can be very distressing. Sometimes symptoms are mild or easy to manage. There are daily medications and ways to manage allergies that are easy to do and help a lot. Some people have more severe allergies that are hard to control. Don’t despair! There are lots of different allergy medications and environmental ways to manage and improve symptoms.
You should consider seeing a healthcare provider if you experience symptoms that persist or impact your quality of life, such as sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy or watery eyes. This sort of seasonal or environmental allergies are very common and can be treated. Some people have their allergies expressed more in breathing with cough, a wheeze or asthma-like symptoms which require breathing inhalers or oral medications. Other people have allergic reactions that show up as skin irritations or rashes, which can be treated with topical creams or oral medications. Being prone to allergies is super common, and super irritating!
If you have tried over the counter medications, then it may be time to try prescription strength medications or combinations of medications that can help get symptoms under better control. There are pills, sprays, creams and a variety of prescription strength medications that can help provide relief.
Additionally, if you have severe reactions like difficulty breathing, mouth or face swelling, or anaphylaxis, it’s crucial to seek professional care immediately. Anaphylaxis reactions are life threatening. If you have this type of allergy, please let our clinical team know. It is also important to have a prescription for and carry an epinephrine pen with you at all times. We can provide a prescription for epi pens as part of your primary or allergy care.
What kind of treatment options are there for allergies?
At FOLX, we offer a comprehensive approach to allergy management that may include:
- Allergen Avoidance: Identifying and avoiding your allergy triggers.
- Medications: Prescribing antihistamines, decongestants, nasal corticosteroids, or eye drops to relieve symptoms. We treat asthma and skin allergy symptoms as well. In order to prescribe safely, we will want to take a careful history and do a thorough telehealth exam in order to tailor your care to your needs.
- Immunotherapy: Considering allergy shots or sublingual tablets for long-term tolerance to allergens.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Advice on how to minimize exposure to allergens in your daily environment.
Our clinicians will work with you to determine the most effective treatment strategy based on your specific allergies and health goals.
Is there anything I should prepare for my visit?
For your visit with a FOLX clinician, it’s helpful to keep a diary of your symptoms and any potential allergen exposures. Also, list all medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter and herbal supplements. This information will help us tailor our care to your specific needs.
Other resources / further reading
For more information on allergy management and support, explore these resources:
- Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America
- American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases
Frequently Asked Questions
Can FOLX prescribe medication for allergies?
Yes, FOLX clinicians can prescribe or point you towards all necessary medications to manage your allergy symptoms, including both over-the-counter and prescription options.
How does FOLX handle emergency allergy situations?
While FOLX is equipped to manage ongoing allergy care, individuals with severe allergies may need in person care as well. Persons with severe or life threatening allergies should have an emergency action plan and carry necessary medications like epinephrine auto-injectors. For immediate emergency care, it’s crucial to visit an emergency room or urgent care facility.
Can allergies affect my hormone therapy?
Allergies generally do not directly impact hormone therapy. However, some allergy medications can interact with hormones. It is always important to provide a complete list of your medical issues and medication, along with allergies, as part of any medical care with FOLX. Taking your important medications, as instructed, to manage asthma or severe allergies is important to your overall health. FOLX clinicians are skilled in managing these medications and interactions to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Does FOLX offer testing to identify allergy triggers?
Yes, FOLX can facilitate a referral to a local lab or specialist to do allergy testing to help identify specific triggers.
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FOLX Health is the first digital healthcare company designed by and for the LGBTQIA+ community. Our services include primary care, gender-affirming hormone therapy including estrogen and testosterone (HRT), mental health care, sexual and reproductive health care, and fertility consultations. FOLX memberships give you access to LGBTQIA+ expert clinicians, peer support, thousands of LGBTQIA+ resources, and more. Whether you’re lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, gender non-conforming, nonbinary, or another identity, you can find LGBTQ-specialized health care that helps you meet your wellness goals. Get all the benefits of becoming a FOLX member and sign up today!
