Spring is here at last, and while most of us welcome the warm weather and are happy to get back outside, it also means dreaded allergy season is back in full swing.
COVID-19 has changed much of our lives, including allergy season. Allergies are challenging at the best of times, but symptoms of seasonal allergies may be easily confused with COVID-19 symptoms. On top of this added confusion, allergy sufferers are also worried about sideways glances from sneezing and sniffles in public. If you are normally sneezing or coughing your way through spring, summer and fall months, you may now be extra mindful of managing your allergy symptoms in public.
As a pharmacist, I know how frustrating and stressful allergy season can be, particularly right now, but it doesn’t have to be that way. There are many ways to manage symptoms to give allergy sufferers peace of mind – so they don’t have to wonder if a runny nose or tickly throat is an allergy symptom or a sign of something else. Here are my top tips to help take control of your seasonal allergies.
- When you are outside, protect yourself: Wearing large sunglasses and a hat is a great way to protect yourself from pollen. Also consider using a mask to cover your nose and mouth if you are doing something active.
- Check the pollen forecast: The pollen forecast can change daily. Consider choosing outdoor activities on days that the pollen count is lower and try to stay indoors on warm, windy days.
- Find the right products for your symptoms: Seasonal allergies and symptom severity can vary person-to-person. Your local pharmacist can assess your symptoms and recommend appropriate solutions like over-the-counter medications and products that can work for you.
- Protect your home from pollen: After time outdoors, we carry a lot of pollen back. During allergy season, be sure to wash your bedding more frequently, and if possible, keep your windows closed to prevent pollen from sneaking in.
Following these simple tips are an excellent way to keep pesky and uncomfortable allergy symptoms at bay. Call or visit your local pharmacist and ask us how you can better manage your allergies this season.
Tim Blunt is a pharmacist and owner of your local Shoppers Drug Mart in Moose Jaw.
