Achoo! Are Allergies Making You Sneeze?
by Jena Harrity, Community Pharmacist

After a long cold winter, most of us look forward to the warmer months ahead. But for those who suffer from seasonal allergies, the start of spring may signal the start of itchy watery eyes, nasal congestion, frequent sneezing, and a runny nose. Often, people will self-treat these symptoms without seeking the advice of a health care professional. However, if allergies are not treated properly they can significantly reduce your quality of life. If you have been diagnosed with allergies, your community pharmacist is an accessible and knowledgeable resource for allergy management.

Your pharmacist can develop an allergy management plan for you. In order to do so, they will need to know what symptoms bother you, how severe these symptoms are, and how long they last. It also helps to know what allergy medications you have tried in the past and how effective each one was. If a medication was ineffective, how were you using it? Some medications can be taken as needed, but others need to be taken regularly to be effective. Ensuring you understand how to use a medication properly is one of your pharmacist’s key responsibilities.

The information you provide will allow your pharmacist to determine the best treatment options for you. They can then highlight the benefits and potential side effects of each medication. Other factors to consider may be convenience (once daily dosing), cost (drug plan coverage), and personal preferences (unscented products). If the selected medication is available by prescription only, a referral to your physician will be required. Your pharmacist may either call to discuss the treatment plan with your physician or provide a written recommendation for you.

Once you have received the medication, your pharmacist will monitor your progress. They will follow up with you to ensure the medication is working well to control your symptoms. If unsuccessful, they will review the proper usage and recommend a change in therapy if needed. Your pharmacist will also inquire about side effects experienced and can provide advice on managing them should they occur. Most often, the initial follow-up will be conducted by phone within the first week or two. Further follow-ups may take place at the pharmacy when you come in to pick up a refill of your medication.

Generally, avoiding allergens (the substance that causes the allergic reaction) is the best way to control your allergies.

For example, with allergies to pollen:

• Monitor pollen counts, and limit outdoor activities during peak pollen times (sunny, windy days with low humidity).
• Have someone else mow the lawn.
• Take a shower or bath after outdoor activities to remove pollen from skin and hair.
• Keep house and car windows closed to prevent pollens from entering. If needed, use air conditioning.
• Do not hang sheets or clothing outside to dry.

Ask your pharmacist for information on avoiding other allergens.

If you would like advice on managing your allergies speak with your pharmacist now and look forward to spring.