man sneezing because of allergies

Online allergies diagnosis.

Experiencing sensitivities to new substances, and over-the-counter medications aren’t working?

Access the answers you need, when you need them, and connect with an online doctor at Tia Health.

Book now
man sneezing because of allergies

Online allergies diagnosis.

Experiencing sensitivities to new substances, and over-the-counter medications aren’t working?

Access the answers you need, when you need them, and connect with an online doctor at Tia Health.

Book now

What are allergies?

Allergies refer to the reaction your body has to a foreign substance, known as an allergen, that is not considered typically harmful to everyone. Your body’s immune system identifies this allergen as being a threat and so produces antibodies to fight it. These antibodies release chemicals, such as histamine, that trigger allergy symptoms.

What are allergies?

Allergies refer to the reaction your body has to a foreign substance, known as an allergen, that is not considered typically harmful to everyone. Your body’s immune system identifies this allergen as being a threat and so produces antibodies to fight it. These antibodies release chemicals, such as histamine, that trigger allergy symptoms.

man sneezing into elbow

An allergies diagnosis is likely if you are experiencing more than one of these symptoms:

  • Sneezing

  • Inflammation of the skin, sinuses, airways, or digestive system

  • Swelling

  • Runny noses

  • Red, watery eyes

  • Tingling sensations

However, allergies affect everyone differently and something that causes a minor reaction in one person can cause life-threatening anaphylaxis in another.

What is anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis is the extreme reaction an allergen can cause. It can be very serious and cause your body to go into shock. Signs of anaphylaxis are:

  • Reduced blood pressure
  • Lightheadedness
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Shortness of breath

If you or someone around you is experiencing anaphylaxis you should call 911 immediately.

What types of allergies are there?

There are several different allergies that all exhibit different symptoms, these include:

  • Food allergies, which can cause:
    • Anaphylaxis
    • Hives
    • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
    • Tingling in the mouth
  • Hay fever, which can cause:
    • Blocked or runny nose
    • Itchiness
    • Sneezing
    • Swollen eyes
  • Insect sting allergies, which can cause:
    • Anaphylaxis
    • Chest tightening
    • Hives or extreme itching
    • Large swelling at the site
  • Medication/drug allergies, which can cause:
    • Anaphylaxis
    • Hives or extreme itching
    • Rash
    • Wheezing

What is hay fever?

Hay fever is an allergy to indoor or outdoor allergens that may worsen depending on the seasons. This is because common allergy triggers are tree pollen, which is common in early spring, and grass pollen, which is common in late spring and summertime. Hay fever prompts symptoms such as:

  • Runny or congested nose
  • Itchy eyes, nose, throat, or face
  • Cough or sneezing

Unfortunately, there is no way to avoid hay fever, but summer allergy symptoms can be treated by taking allergy medications before exposure.

What causes allergies?

Some of the most common allergens are:

  • Airborne substances, such as animal hair, dust, mold, or pollen
  • Foods, such as dairy, peanuts, fish, or soy
  • Medications, such as penicillin
  • Latex

Are certain people more at risk of getting an allergy diagnosis?

Yes, risk factors include:

  • Being under 18
  • Having asthma
  • Having a family history of asthma or allergies

How can I prevent an allergic reaction?

Adopting the following habits can help:

  • Keeping an allergy diary which notes when symptoms were experienced, what triggered the symptoms, and what worsens or alleviates them
  • If you have a known severe allergy that causes anaphylaxis, then always carry an EpiPen and consider wearing a medical alert bracelet to let others know of allergies if you are prohibited from communicating
  • Avoiding known triggers, wherever possible

How to get rid of allergies at home:

Certain at-home practices can help to alleviate the symptoms of allergies, including:

  • Saline nasal irrigation: this involves rinsing the sinuses with a salt and water solution to flush out mucus and irritants
  • Reducing moisture in the home using ventilation techniques and dehumidifiers
  • Frequent cleaning to eliminate dust and any pet hair, including regularly washing bedding in hot water

When should I see an online doctor to help with an allergies diagnosis?

It is time to see a doctor if you are experiencing severe allergy symptoms or if over-the-counter relief medications are not working. An online doctor can assess your symptoms and if necessary, they may refer you to a specialist or prescribe medication. You can have your prescription delivered for free or sent to a pharmacy of your choice for pick-up.

Are allergies serious?

Most allergies are mild irritants, but some can be very severe and interfere with day-to-day quality of life. It can also increase your risk of other diseases, such as asthma, sinusitis, or infections in the lungs or ears.

How does a doctor test for an allergy?

In order to identify and confirm an allergy, the doctor might conduct one of the following tests:

  • Skin tests: this procedure involves exposing you to a small and controlled dose of the allergen to test for a reaction
  • Blood tests: your blood would be reviewed for the presence of allergy-causing antibodies

How does a doctor treat an allergy?

Once an allergy has been identified, possible treatment options include:

  • Avoidance: if possible, the doctor will help you create ways of avoiding the allergen
  • Emergency epinephrine: if allergy symptoms are severe the doctor may provide an EpiPen to be carried everywhere as an emergency shot that reduces symptoms until further treatment can be provided
  • Immunotherapy: this involves a series of injections being administered over the course of a few years in order to try and reduce the allergic reaction
  • Medications: a doctor may prescribe pills, nasal sprays, or eyedrops, in order to alleviate the allergy symptoms and reduce your reaction

How do I prepare for my online allergies appointment?

To ensure the physician can provide an accurate medication prescription during your appointment, you can help by noting down any concerns and answers in advance, along with any allergies they should be aware of.

What will my online allergies appointment be like?

Appointments usually take between five to thirty minutes depending on the individual need. The online doctor will ask for a description of your symptoms. This will allow them to determine the best course of treatment. If necessary, they may recommend a follow-up appointment or a visit to a physical clinic.

How booking works.

“How do I connect with an online doctor about allergies?”

Our virtual clinic is designed to provide you with secure, trusted and easy access to the advice and care you need when you need it.

Here is how to book an appointment:

Here is how to book an appointment:

Skip the waiting room and book a virtual clinic appointment instead

Step 1

Select which doctor you would like to see and whether you prefer a phone or video call. We have a variety of male and female doctors available to help you in several languages.

Step 2

Attend your virtual appointment from the comfort of your own home using your chosen method of communication. We do not require you to download any apps or programs.

Step 3

Receive guidance and allergy treatment recommendations from the medical specialist. The doctor can share any necessary prescriptions with your chosen pharmacy, and you can opt to have medication delivered to your home for free or can collect in-person if preferred.

Book now

Have a question?

Services

Tia Health doctors' prescriptions are legitimate and are accepted by pharmacies. You can have your prescription delivered for free or sent to a pharmacy of your choice for pick-up.
Yes. Our telehealth platform connects you to a fully licensed Canadian physician. Just like an in-person visit, with telehealth, the doctor is responsible for understanding your case, medical history, and determining the appropriate treatment. If the doctor is not able to help you through telehealth, they may advise that you visit a clinic or hospital in-person.
Your privacy is our top priority, we use bank-level encryption and store data securely in Canada.
Click on the Book Now button to get started. You will then be prompted to select the type of consultation (video or phone), who the appointment is for (you or someone else), and which provider you would like to speak with. Lastly, you will be prompted to sign-up or login to confirm your appointment.
Yes! All Tia Health doctors are Canadian licensed physicians. You can verify the status of their license and view their credentials on the College of Physicians website for the province they are licensed. The city and province in which the physician practices is listed on their Tia Health profile which you will see while navigating the booking process.
Yes, we have a variety of doctors, male and female, doctors who speak different languages, and with different specialties.
If you have a family doctor working on the Tia Health platform, they may have telehealth availability. If not, check back soon as we are adding physicians weekly.

Pricing

Telehealth services are covered by the provincial health plans in British Columbia (MSP), Alberta (AHCIP), and Ontario (OHIP) but not currently in other provinces (check back soon as this is changing). Patients with valid coverage in these provinces will not be charged for their telehealth service. Patients in other provinces will receive a receipt that may be reimbursed through a health spending account or other extended/private insurance.
Through our partnership with Focus Mental Wellness, you can talk to a licensed and compassionate therapist via phone, video, or text. Focus therapy services don't require a doctor's referral and are covered by most extended health benefits. Sessions are usually available within a few days, and depending on your selected therapist's availability, same-day sessions are offered.
We accept VISA, MasterCard, American Express, and other online payment enabled cards.
Telehealth services are covered by the provincial health plans in British Columbia (MSP), Alberta (AHCIP), and Ontario (OHIP) but not currently in other provinces (check back soon as this is changing). Patients with valid coverage in these provinces will not be charged for their telehealth service. Patients in other provinces will receive a receipt that may be reimbursed through a health spending account or other extended/private insurance. If no coverage is available to you, then appointment pricing ranges depending on the appointment type you select. There are no time-based fees or additional fees if an appointment lasts longer than expected.
Get the best care from anywhere

Get the best care from anywhere!

Tia Health is focused on modernizing and digitizing healthcare. Our mission is to positively impact health outcomes by leveraging technology to empower patients and doctors.

Book now

Get the best care from anywhere!

Tia Health is focused on modernizing and digitizing healthcare. Our mission is to positively impact health outcomes by leveraging technology to empower patients and doctors.

This page is intended for informational purposes only and does not provide medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.