Navigating Challenging Times with Allergies: Dr. Segal Answers Your Questions

By Dr. Manav Segal, Board Certified Allergist and Immunologist

We hope and trust that you and your loved ones remain healthy and secure, and we understand that you may have questions and concerns about your current allergy care.

Our offices remain open during regular hours to answer calls and to conduct televisits. We are continuing to provide in-office allergy injections on a reduced schedule at both our Wyndmoor and Center City offices. Please visit the Message Board on our home page to check office hours as we are updating information regularly.

If you have questions that aren’t answered below, please call our office or schedule a telelvisit:

Wyndmoor: (215) 247-2292
Center City: (215) 545-2252

Allergy Patients and Injections

Are you continuing to provide allergy injections?
Yes, however our in-house office visit hours have changed temporarily. Please check the message board on our home page for in-house visit hours.

If you are coming in for an appointment, please wear a protective face mask per the current Pennsylvania guidelines. We are limiting patient flow to maintain your safety through social distancing. If you are experiencing any symptoms such as cough, fever, body aches or significant sore throat, please do not come to the office. Instead, please call so we may provide guidance.

Are you accepting new patients?
Yes, new patients are welcome. For at least the month of April, we will schedule a televisit to onboard new patients. Please call Monday through Friday during regular office hours to schedule your televisit appointment.

What should established patients do if they have a follow-up visit scheduled?
Please call the office to schedule a follow-up televisit appointment with Dr. Segal, or you can utilize the patient portal on our website to secure your televisit appointment.

Should I come in for my allergy shot if I’m not feeling well?
We never provide allergy shots to individuals who are ill, such as those experiencing cold or flu symptoms or fever. Please call to postpone your appointment and we will provide guidance. You may also want to call your primary care doctor to discuss your symptoms.

Is it okay to skip my allergy shots?
Under the current circumstances, it’s okay to postpone your allergy shot injection if you prefer. Dr. Segal and staff will be able to resume your treatment when you are ready, and we will prepare a plan that’s right for you. Please note: those who choose to postpone injections may experience more seasonal symptoms until they resume treatment. Significant gaps in treatment may benefit from a televisit or office visit prior to resuming allergy shot therapy.

If you have other questions, call our office or schedule a telelvisit.

Oral Immunotherapy (OIT) Patients

Should I continue my current dose?
It’s fine to maintain your current dose until the next time you come in for an appointment. You should not modify your dose under any circumstances without first discussing with Dr. Segal. Please feel free to call the office or schedule a televisit if you have questions.

Can I still get additional dose packs from the office?
Yes, we are providing patients with additional doses. Please contact us to make arrangements.

Is It Allergies, Or Could I Be Ill?

As the spring allergy season arrives, many people express concern whether their symptoms are due to allergies or an illness. Especially as we are all on heightened alert with the coronavirus, it’s understandable that this can cause confusion and anxiety. Here are a few tips to help you:

• Allergy symptoms don’t typically include fever, extreme fatigue or chills, nausea, diarrhea, significant sore throat or body aches. If you have any of these symptoms, please contact your primary care doctor for guidance.
• Allergy symptoms often do include sneezing and itching (especially eyes and nose).
• Allergy symptoms often get worse outside and better inside.
• Allergy symptoms usually improve with the use of antihistamines.

As always, if you are unsure, contact your primary care physician, or feel free to contact our office. We are always happy to discuss your concerns with you.

In good health,
Dr. Manav Segal