Yes — seasonal allergies (allergic rhinitis) are commonly treated through telemedicine in many cases.
👍 Telemedicine is usually appropriate when symptoms are typical
A virtual visit can help diagnose and manage symptoms such as:
Sneezing, nasal congestion, or runny nose
Itchy / watery eyes
Post-nasal drip or scratchy throat
Sinus pressure or headache
Mild cough from drainage
During a telehealth visit, a clinician can typically:
Review symptom history + triggers
Distinguish allergies from viral colds or sinus infection
Recommend OTC or prescription medications
Adjust or simplify existing treatment plans
Common treatments that can be prescribed via telemedicine include:
Non-sedating antihistamines (loratadine, cetirizine, fexofenadine)
Nasal steroid sprays (fluticasone, mometasone, budesonide)
Antihistamine nasal sprays (azelastine)
Eye allergy drops
Leukotriene inhibitors (e.g., montelukast, when appropriate)
Short courses of decongestants (if safe)
Providers may also give guidance on:
Avoidance strategies (pollen counts, windows, air filters)
Saline rinses or nasal hygiene
When to consider allergy testing or immunotherapy
🟡 Telemedicine may be appropriate but needs closer review if:
Symptoms are unusually severe or persistent
You’ve already tried multiple medications without relief
You have asthma or wheezing with allergy flares
There is concern for chronic sinusitis
In these cases, the clinician might recommend:
In-person exam
Allergy testing / ENT referral
Spirometry (lung function) if asthma suspected
🔴 In-person care is recommended urgently if you have:
Facial swelling, severe sinus pain, or high fever
Shortness of breath or wheezing not previously diagnosed
Signs of anaphylaxis (throat swelling, hives, trouble breathing)
Recurrent nosebleeds or vision changes
Those symptoms are not typical of simple seasonal allergies.
