It might seem that spring is a long way away; we have so much to do before then. However, it will come before we know it. Many of us suffer from seasonal allergies that occur during the springtime. There are steps that we can take in order to prepare and prevent the intensity of our symptoms when the season of the sneezes arrives. Here are our top tips:

1. Talk to Your Doctor

If you already know that you have seasonal allergies, such as the variety of types of hay fever, it can be a good idea to see your doctor months in advance. Why? In the past, have you waited until it’s too late and the symptoms begin? If so, you know what it is like to be in a battle against time to avoid your symptoms from worsening or having a greater impact on your life. Additionally, some medications such as nasal corticosteroids, take a couple weeks to reach maximum effectiveness. By discussing your symptoms from last year before the season occurs, you can be prepared, not only with the right medications, but also with a plan to prevent pollen from entering your home. Medications of various purposes and effects in the treatment of seasonal allergy are available in online drugstores like Canadian pharmacy online, a service designed to generate considerable savings on the purchase of OTC and prescription medications. Make sure your prescription is issued and you have it close at hand when you are visiting the service with the purpose of buying a prescription drug.

2. Be Aware of Your Personal Allergens

Although on the whole, hay fever is caused by an allergy to pollen, which is in abundance at certain times of the year, many sufferers are allergic to a variety of types of pollen. During the spring period, it is possible to have allergic reactions to grass pollen, weeds, tree pollen or fungal spores. Most commonly, hay fever sufferers are allergic to grass pollen.

By reflecting on when you had your symptoms last year, you can discuss this with your doctor, so that they can help determine the best treatment or medication based on your particular allergen triggers. Alternatively, if you are seeking an over the counter treatment, an accurate description of symptoms and their timing will assist your pharmacist in making the best OTC treatment recommendation.

3. Know When to Expect Allergy Symptoms

As we have said, it is possible to predict when the symptoms are likely to occur. It is helpful to know your personal, specific allergens to best allow your doctor to help you predict when the type of pollen will be at its highest. Although, it is as impossible to accurately predict a definite date of when your symptoms will occur.
However, by having a rough idea, you can be prepared. After all, knowledge is power. Your doctor may suggest that you start taking your antihistamines earlier to allow them to build up your system.

4. Modify Your Life Choices

We don’t recommend staying inside until the end of spring. It’s a beautiful season, and it would be a shame to miss out on the weather. Be aware if you have any important events, such as exams, or special occasions such as weddings that are often outside. By knowing when your symptoms can occur, it is sometimes possible to be a little strategic in when you plan those events, to avoid your allergy completely taking over your spring.

If you have talked to your doctor about how to best prepare, or if this is difficult to do, why not come in and talk to us at Family Pharmacy? We’re always happy to help you in any way we can, and provide you with expert advice.