Medically reviewed
There are some serious allergies which require urgent evaluation by a doctor. If you experience swelling in your lips, mouth or throat, trouble breathing, or lightheadedness after consuming food, taking medication, or touching a certain material, go see a doctor as soon as possible.
You should also speak with your doctor about potential allergies if you experience a pattern of cold-like symptoms (runny nose, sneezing) or rash (itchy red or skin-colored bumps called hives):
- When you are in contact with a specific animal, plant, food, medicine, or material
- When you are in a particular environment, such as inside your home or at your office, that seem to disappear as soon as you are out of that environment
- During a specific time of year
For symptomatic treatment of allergies, we recommend antihistamines like Claritin or Zyrtec. For treatment of a cold, the over-the-counter medication depends on your symptoms. For example, Tylenol Cold and Flu Severe contains acetaminophen (which relieves pain and reduces a fever), dextromethorphan (suppresses a cough), phenylephrine (reduces nasal congestion), and guaifenesin (clears mucus). These active ingredients are available in many brands and products in different combinations, so you can look for the active ingredients that are most relevant to your symptoms.
If symptoms persist or worsen, text with a doctor and continue the conversation with K Health.
