Dandelion Environmental allergies and hay fever
Environmental allergies are immune reactions to things in the air around us, such as pollen, dust mites, mould and pet dander. An allergist can help work out which triggers matter for you and build a plan that fits your life.
Common signs people are referred for
A doctor may refer you to an allergist if you or your child have:
- Sneezing, a runny or blocked nose and itchy eyes that return at the same time each year
- Symptoms that are worse at home, in the bedroom or around pets
- Symptoms that last for weeks or months and disturb sleep or school and work
- Symptoms that are not well controlled by the medications you already use
- A cough or wheeze along with nose and eye symptoms
- Frequent sinus trouble or tiredness that may be linked to allergies
These are reasons a doctor may suggest an allergist visit. They are not a way to diagnose yourself or your child.
How an allergist assesses it
Your allergist will begin with the pattern of your symptoms: when they start, where you are when they are worst, what seems to bring them on and what you have already tried. A simple diary of symptoms and places can help. Your nose, eyes and chest will be examined.
The next step is often allergy skin testing for common airborne triggers such as pollen, dust mites, mould and animals. Blood tests may be used instead when skin testing is not suitable. A positive test alone does not confirm that a trigger is causing your symptoms. Someone can react on a test to cats and have no trouble around cats, so results are always read alongside your history.
If you also cough or wheeze, your allergist may suggest spirometry to check how well your lungs are working.
Your clinic will tell you before the visit what, if anything, needs to be paused. Please do not pause any medication unless the clinic or your own doctor has told you to.
Treatment and management options
Treatment is built around your triggers and how much your symptoms affect your day. General categories include:
- Practical avoidance guidance for the triggers that are confirmed, such as steps for the bedroom or for high-pollen days
- Medications that your own physician or allergist recommends, such as antihistamines and nose or eye treatments, and a review of how you are using them
- Allergy immunotherapy, which may be considered for some patients whose symptoms stay troublesome. See environmental allergy immunotherapy
- Follow-up visits to see how your plan is working and change it if needed
Your allergist will explain which options may suit you and what to expect from each.
Children and adults
Our pediatric and adult allergists see all ages. Children with hay fever or year-round symptoms, teens, adults and older adults can all be assessed at the same clinic, in person or virtually.
Frequently asked questions
How can I tell hay fever from a cold?
Both can cause sneezing and a runny nose. Allergy symptoms tend to come with itchy eyes or nose and can last for weeks or return at the same time each year, while colds usually pass within days. If you are unsure, your doctor or an allergist can help.
Do I need testing to know what I am allergic to?
Not everyone does, but testing can help when the cause is unclear or when symptoms do not settle. Your allergist will decide whether testing is useful after hearing your history.
Can I develop an allergy to a pet or a pollen later in life?
Yes. Allergies can appear at any age, including to a pet you have had for years. An allergist can help find out whether a pet or another trigger is involved.
What is allergy immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy is a treatment that gradually helps the immune system respond less strongly to a specific trigger. It is not right for everyone, and your allergist will tell you whether it may be an option for you.
Related reading
Getting an assessment
For patients
Patients cannot refer themselves. Ask your family doctor or a walk-in clinic to fax a referral to 416 850 9993, and our team will contact you to book.
How referrals workFor physicians
Send a referral through our secure online form, or read the referral guide first.
Open the referral formLast updated: October 2026Prepared by: Dandelion Allergy CentreGeneral information only, not medical advice. Your allergist's instructions take priority over anything on this page.