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Spring allergies |
Spring can be a rough time for allergy sufferers because of all the dust in the air and pollen from the blooming plants, trees and flower buds. Your immune system reacts to these allergens, which can make you have itchy and watery eyes or a runny nose. It can also cause sneezing or sinus congestion and, in some cases, can even trigger headaches. Knowing more about what triggers your allergic reactions can help you prevent reactions and treat them if you already have some symptoms.
Prevention
Treatment
Antihistamines are commonly used to treat or prevent allergic reactions. Symptoms include, and can be in any combination of: runny nose, sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, itchy skin and/or rash. Pay attention to labelling as some oral antihistamines can cause drowsiness. Other forms of antihistamines are nasal sprays, topical creams and eye drops.
Decongestants treat nasal congestion. So if you are having trouble breathing through your nose, a pill or nasal spray is available for short-term treatment as prolonged use can cause a rebound effect. Oral decongestants can increase blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Those with diabetes or uncontrolled blood pressure should consider a nasal spray instead.
A more direct approach is nasal irrigation. This involves rinsing of the nasal cavity of any allergens and debris with a non-irritating saline solution. You can find nasal irrigation kits in the pharmacy or you can make your own kit at home. Recipes for making saline solution and instructional videos are available online.
Corticosteroids are a prescription drug treatment used to treat allergies and are available in pill form, eye drops or nasal spray.
Seek medical advice when:
Talk to your pharmacy specialist to learn more about allergies and the best treatment option for you, especially if you have any medical conditions or if you are taking medications.
Sources:
The above information is intended for educational purposes only. Always consult with your doctor, pharmacist or qualified health care professional to receive proper medical treatment.
Armalyn Tesoro is a graduate of the University of Manitoba with a Bachelor of Science degree in Pharmacy. She is currently working as a licensed community pharmacist at Wal-Mart on Ellice and Empress.