Tanya Sklierenko (Markland Wood Pharmacy) for NP-UN, Toronto.
April showers may bring May flowers, but they also bring seasonal allergies with sneezes, congestion and itchy, watery eyes.
There are three main types of allergies:
1) Seasonal allergic rhinitis:
Symptoms may occur in the spring, summer and early fall. Spring allergens are usually grass and tree pollen. In the fall, triggers are ragweed or other weed pollens and outdoor mold.
2) Perennial allergic rhinitis:
Symptoms may occur year-round. Allergens are usually dust, pet hair or dander, or mold.
3) Anaphylaxis:
This is a serious, life threatening allergic reaction. It is important to immediately go to the hospital if this type of reaction occurs. The most common anaphylactic reactions are to foods, insect bites and medications.
Symptoms of allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever include a stuffy or runny nose, sneezing or itchy watery eyes. Unlike the common cold or the flu, allergy symptoms come all at once.
There are many things you can do to manage and treat allergic rhinitis:
- Keep windows closed and avoid going outside when the pollen counts are high (e.g. mid-morning and early evening)
- Wear glasses or sunglasses when outdoors to keep pollen out of your eyes
- Don’t hang clothing outdoors to dry as pollen may cling to them
- Clean your air conditioner or furnace filters regularly
- Wash bedding frequently with hot water
- Keep humidity in your home low
- Wash your hands after petting any animal
- Over-the-counter medications can also help relieve symptoms
When you can’t avoid allergens, oral antihistamines (e.g. Reactine and Claritin) are the first line medical treatment. If possible, take your antihistamine 30 minutes before being exposed to the allergen.
The most common side effect of antihistamines is sedation. Benadryl is most likely to cause drowsiness but will help if allergies are keeping you awake at night. Aerius on the other hand, is least likely to cause drowsiness and may work best if allergies are worst during the day. Some antihistamines also come with a decongestant (e.g. pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine) that may help reduce congestion. Remember that decongestants are not recommended for those diagnosed with high blood pressure, those who are pregnant or for those with glaucoma.
Nasal corticosteroids like Nasacort can also relieve nasal congestion. Speak to your pharmacist first before starting a nasal corticosteroid.
Nose rinses can also be used to relieve symptoms. They contain specially formulated salt water that clean the inside of the nose to get rid of allergens in the nose.
Eye drops (Visine allergy or Opticrom) help with eye symptoms and can relieve itchy watery eyes.
If symptoms continue for more than 3 days despite adequate treatment, speak to your doctor.
For more information on allergic rhinitis, visit one of our friendly pharmacists at Markland Wood Pharmacy.
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