As the vibrant colors of spring emerge and nature awakens from its winter slumber, so do seasonal allergies. For many, the blooming flowers and trees bring not just beauty but also sneezing, itching, and congestion. At Olympia Plaza Pharmacy, we understand the struggle and want to arm you with the knowledge and tools to conquer spring allergies effectively. Here are some practical tips to help you navigate this allergy season with ease:
The time to prepare for seasonal allergies is earlier than you might expect. Taking medications before everything is in bloom can significantly help control symptoms. This year, consider ramping up your prevention efforts even earlier than usual. Climate change and rising temperatures worldwide lead to a longer growing season and higher levels of pollen in the air.
Our pharmacists are here to help! Whether you need advice on over-the-counter medications or have questions about prescription options, don’t hesitate to reach out. We can recommend antihistamines, decongestants, nasal sprays, or eye drops tailored to your needs.
Be proactive and stock up on allergy medications before your symptoms flare up. Many commonly used over-the-counter medications can help make allergy season more manageable. These medications are available for purchase at the Essentials Store in our app.
Nasal corticosteroid sprays prevent inflammation to reduce allergy symptoms such as stuffiness, sneezing, and a runny nose. Common OTC options include Nasacort® (triamcinolone), Flonase® (fluticasone), and Rhinocort® (budesonide). When taken in advance, these medications can potentially prevent the onset of allergy symptoms altogether.
These medications block histamine, a chemical that your immune system releases during an allergic reaction. You may take them up to two weeks before the start of allergy season as a preventative measure. They offer fast relief, taking anywhere from 15 minutes to two hours to go into effect. Some antihistamines, including Zyrtec® (cetirizine), Clarinex® (desloratadine), Allegra® (fexofenadine), Alavert®, Claritin® (loratadine), and Xyzal® (levocetirizine), are less likely to cause drowsiness compared to others like Benadryl® (diphenhydramine).
Consider creating a sanctuary within your home where you can escape from allergens. Keep windows closed during peak pollen times, use air purifiers with HEPA filters, and regularly clean surfaces to remove pollen particles.
Stay informed about pollen levels in your area by checking local pollen forecasts. On high pollen days, limit outdoor activities or take precautions such as wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes and a mask to filter out pollen particles.
Pollen levels are typically highest in the morning and on windy days. If possible, schedule outdoor activities for later in the day when pollen counts tend to be lower. When gardening or doing outdoor chores, wear a mask and gloves to minimize exposure.
While scientific evidence is limited, some people believe that consuming local honey may help reduce allergy symptoms. The theory is that consuming small amounts of local pollen through honey can desensitize the body over time. Incorporate a spoonful of local honey into your daily routine and see if it makes a difference for you.
After spending time outdoors, take a shower and change your clothes to remove pollen from your body and clothing. This simple habit can help prevent pollen from spreading throughout your home and exacerbating your allergies.
A well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help support your immune system and alleviate allergy symptoms. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, herbal teas, or clear broths to thin mucus and soothe irritated nasal passages.
If your allergy symptoms persist despite taking over-the-counter medications or if you experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing or chest tightness, seek medical attention immediately.
By following these tips and utilizing the resources available at Olympia Plaza Pharmacy, you can minimize the impact of spring allergies and enjoy the season to the fullest. Don’t let allergies hold you back—take control of your health and embrace the beauty of spring!
